Low Impact Building Low Impact Building Housing using Renewable Materials

Tom Woolley

A John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., Publication This edition first published 2013 © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd Blackwell Publishing was acquired by John Wiley & Sons in February 2007. Blackwell’s publishing program has been merged with Wiley’s global Scientific, Technical and Medical business to form Wiley-Blackwell. Registered Office John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, The Atrium, Southern Gate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 8SQ, UK Editorial Offices 9600 Garsington Road, Oxford, OX4 2DQ, UK The Atrium, Southern Gate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 8SQ, UK 2121 State Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50014-8300, USA For details of our global editorial offices, for customer services and for information about how to apply for permission to reuse the copyright material in this book please see our website at www.wiley.com/wiley-blackwell. The right of the author to be identified as the author of this work has been asserted in accordance with the UK Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, except as permitted by the UK Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988, without the prior permission of the publisher. Designations used by companies to distinguish their products are often claimed as trademarks. All brand names and product names used in this book are trade names, service marks, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. The publisher is not associated with any product or vendor mentioned in this book. Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While the publisher and author(s) have used their best efforts in preparing this book, they make no representations or warranties with the respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of this book and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. It is sold on the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering professional services and neither the publisher nor the author shall be liable for damages arising herefrom. If professional advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Woolley, Tom, author. Low impact housing : building with renewable materials / by Tom Woolley. pages cm Includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN 978-1-4443-3660-3 (pbk. : alk. paper) 1. Ecological houses. 2. Building materials–Environmental aspects. 3. Green products. 4. Recycled products. I. Title. TH4860.W67 2013 690.028′6–dc23 2012031588 A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library. Wiley also publishes its books in a variety of electronic formats. Some content that appears in print may not be available in electronic books. Cover design by His and Hers Design. Front cover: Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth © Morley von Sternberg www.vonsternberg.com. Back cover: Drumalla Park, Carnlough, courtesy of Brian Rankin, Oaklee Homes Group. Set in 10/12.5pt Avenir by SPi Publisher Services, Pondicherry, India

1 2013 For the pioneers of natural and renewable construction materials Contents

Acknowledgements x Figure credits xi Introduction xii The Renewable House Programme xiv The expansion of natural building xiv The wider environmental agenda xv Chapter overview xvii References xviii

1 Renewable and non-renewable materials 1 Synthetic, manmade materials 2 Limitations of synthetic materials 3 Questioning claims about recycling 4 Resource consumption problem with synthetic materials 7 Renewable materials – insulation 9 Carbon sequestration and embodied energy 10 Performance and Durability of natural materials 11 Natural renewable materials commercially available 11 Low impact materials 22 References 23 2 Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 26 Abertridwr Y Llaethdy South Wales 29 Drumalla House, Carnlough, County Antrim 35 Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire 40 Callowlands, Watford 44 Domary Court, York 49 Inverness 55 Long Meadow, Denmark Lane, Diss 59 LILAC, Leeds 64 Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth 68 Reed Street, South Shields 76 The Triangle, Swindon 80 Pittenweem 88 References 92 3 The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement! 94 Monitoring and evaluation 103 References 106 4 Analysis of issues arising from the case studies 107 Success in using natural renewable materials 107 144 for eco materials for eco materials of details for changes is the best option and whether this and components 114 110 111 115 References 145 References Holistic design organisations trade and professional standards, European and education Building physics – lack of good research on sustainable buildings Lack of data and good research and calculation tools simulation Energy impact and performance environmental Assessment of material’s and thermal mass and breathability Moisture 168 Breathability performance in buildings Thermal mass and energy into hempcrete Building physics research 151 Indoor air quality 160 183 References 154 155 170 164 157 174 149 178 Adapting conventional timber frame construction for using natural materials materials natural for using frame construction timber conventional Adapting using details appropriate details right and of getting The importance 109 approvals to get warranty and the need with designs Problems issues and hempcrete Weather in future for prefabrication to go Decision of Lime Technology to construction related and issues products Using wood fibre 116 References materials the use of renewable policies affect Why attitudes and targets efficiency energy Climate change and What is carbon? policies and energy Sustainable construction UK Code for Sustainable Homes New planning policy framework carbon myth The zero 118 The carbon spike concept to many is all that matters in use or ‘operational energy’ Energy was discounted How embodied energy Carbon footprinting 112 Passive design approaches embodied energy? materials have lower Do natural and renewable Carbon sequestration in timber 118 transport issues Wood 126 hempcrete Carbon sequestration in hemp and Deal The Green 120 of synthetic insulations promotion Official 133 argument – the food crops Other attitudes hostile to natural materials and localism Transport Cost 121 142 123 128 119 125 123 138 133 136 140 132 137 139 143 Building physics, natural materials and policy issues Building physics, natural materials 148 Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context issues and the policy context energy materials, Attitudes to renewable 118 6 5

Contents viii

Contents ix 220 227 Hemp lime houses Hemp lime in Ireland Hemp houses Scotland wool in Local sheep’s Lincolnshire Martin, North Kesteven, Grove, houses in West Strawbale Timber experiments Expo Scottish Housing Using local materials? 192 projects? Greenwash neutral’ developments So-called ‘carbon building Earth sheltered BRE Innovation Park houses for low energy Masonry construction Blaming the occupants 70s – déjà vu Back to the 60s and 211 References 216 Middlemen 217 Postscript 219 References 192 189 187 202 205 194 197 197 199 203 210 204 209 Other solutions for low energy housing housing energy for low solutions Other 187 materials? for renewable A future 214 8 Glossary/Abbreviations 7 Index Acknowledgements

There are many people who have assisted in the production of this book and I hope not too many have been overlooked. In particular it would not have been possible without the help of: Rachel Bevan, Leonie Erbsloh, Graeme North, Madeleine Metcalfe and Beth Edgar (Wiley-Blackwell); Gary Newman, Neil May, Alison Pooley, Ceri Loxton, Rob Elias, Jack Goulding (University of Central Lancashire); John Littlewood, Nigel Curry and the Technology Strategy Board Energy Efficient Bio-based Natural Fibre Insulation Project group.

Information and assistance was kindly provided by:

Alliance for Keeley Hale Robert Pearson Sustainable Building Mike Haynes Gina Pelham Products Wai Lun Ho Brendan Power Iris Anderson Glen Howells Ian Pritchett Carol Atkinson Nigel Ingram Paul Raftery Russell Ayres Muzinee Kistenfeger Brian Rankin John Bedford Simon Lawrence Jimm Reed Matt Bridgestock Stephen Lawson John Retchless Luke Brooker Niall Leahy Frank Reynolds Peter Burros Bobby Leighton Haf Roberts James Byrne Simon Linford Francois Samuel Jim Carfrae Donald Lockhart Peter Seaborne Peter Chalkley Dave Mayle David Tibbs Paul Chatterton Donal MacRandal Julie Watson Michael Cramp Kevin McCloud Darren Watts Robert Delius Gerry McGuigan Byron Way Cathie Eberlin Eamon McKay Craig White Andrew Evans Claire Morrall Jayne Wilder Frances Geary Carl Mulkern John Williams Jonathan Gibson Daniel Mulligan Keith Wood John Gilbert Niall Murtagh Louisa Yallop Steve Goodhew Clinton Mysleyko Myles Yallop Tracy Gordon Natureplus Marissa Yeoman Sahra Gott Tony Nuttall Gary Young Paul Green Mark Patten Figure credits

Figure 1.1 www.stonebase.com, CONSARC Figure 2.5 Greenhill Construction Figure 2.11 Oaklee Housing Association Figure 2.12 Oaklee Housing Association Figure 2.17 Cottsway Housing Association Figure 2.19 Luke Brooker Airey Miller Partnership Figure 2.20 Luke Brooker Airey Miller Partnership Figure 2.21 Luke Brooker Airey Miller Partnership Figure 2.26 John Gilbert Architect Figure 2.27 John Gilbert Architect Figure 2.28 John Gilbert Architect Figure 2.29 John Gilbert Architect Figure 2.35 White Design Figure 2.36 Paul Chatterton, LILAC Figure 2.40 The Limecrete Company Ltd. Figure 2.41 The Limecrete Company Ltd Figure 2.42 Tony Nuttall Architect8 Figure 2.43 Tony Nuttall Architect8 Figure 2.44 Tony Nuttall Architect8 Figure 2.45 Robert Delius Stride Treglown Figure 2.49 Clinton Mysleyko Fitz Architects Figure 2.50 Clinton Mysleyko Fitz Architects Figure 2.51 Glen Howells Architects Figure 2.52 Glen Howells Architects Figure 2.56 Glen Howells Architects Figure 2.57 Glen Howells Architects Figure 2.58 Glen Howells Architects Figure 5.2 Sustainable Homes Figure 5.3 Based on diagram from Jukka Heinonen Figure 7.1 Hemporium South Africa Figure 7.2 Hemporium South Africa Figure 7.3 Brendan Power Figure 7.4 James Byrne Figure 7.5 Sleaford Standard Figure 7.6 Parsons and Whittley Architects Figure 7.7 Helen McAteer Menter Siabod Ltd Figure 7.10 The Accord Group Figure 7.11 The Accord Group Introduction

Sustainability is not about energy, composting or insulation. Sustainability is nothing more than leaving the world a little richer than you found it. (Watkins 2009)

This book is about changing the way we construct buildings and houses to reduce their carbon footprint and to minimise environmental damage. One of the ways this can be done is by reducing the energy and environmental impact of the materials and resources we use to construct buildings by using alternative products and systems. In particular, we need to recognise the potential for using natural and renewable construction materials as a way to reduce carbon emissions and also build in a more benign and healthy way. This book is an account of some attempts to introduce this into mainstream house construction in the UK, and the problems and obstacles that need to be overcome to gain wider acceptance of genuinely environmental construction methods. Natural and renewable building and insulation materials can be made from biological sources such as hemp, flax, wood, straw, sheep’s wool and so on. They can be combined with benign or low impact materials, such as lime and earth, into composites. Many building problems can be solved by using these materials, opening the possibility of significant benefits in terms of less pollution, less energy used, better and healthier buildings. Advocates of natural and renewable materials include those who just see a business opportunity in a new market for environmentally friendly products but others embrace Tony Watkins’ holistic philosophy and see the use of natural materials as enriching a more holistic approach to living. Many think of natural and renewable materials using hemp, earth, lime and so on as a fringe activity, only relevant to self-builders in the countryside using ‘handmade’ approaches (Olsen 2012). This was a frequent criticism of the book Natural Building (Woolley 2006). There have been, and continue to be, pioneers of low impact ways of building and ‘handmade houses’ such as in eco-villages like the Lammas project in Wales (Lammas 2012). With the support of Welsh Government planning policies, people who want to live in a sustainable and self-sufficient way, have been given permission to build houses in the countryside, where normally such development might not be Introduction allowed. They have used a variety of low impact building methods and in many cases are ‘off-grid’ so their energy consumption and environmental impact is very low. Despite this they have run into difficulties with the author- ities, as their natural earth and timber structures do not comply with energy efficiency and building regulations (Dale and Saville 2012). Regulations intended to force mainstream builders and developers to reduce energy wastage, are instead used against those whose aim in life is to do exactly that. Such are the contradictions of current policies as they fail to adopt a holistic approach. Instead, as will be argued in this book, poli- cies have tended to support expensive technological solutions and the use of synthetic petrochemical based materials rather than low impact solutions. On the other hand there has been some progress in recent years for alternative ecological materials and methods of building to become accepted in the mainstream as solutions for public sector bodies, housing associations and even major businesses. These clients and their architects have taken a decision to explore alternatives to petrochemical based synthetic materials, often in contradiction to official policy and this gives hope that environmentally responsible measures will become more widely adopted in the future. Manufacturers and distributors of ecological products have begun to escape from the ‘green ghetto’ and become accepted as part of normal building practice. Resistance to this ecological innovation remains however. Even campaigners for greener solutions can be hostile to natural materials and fail to understand the importance of low impact solutions. The majority of men (and it is mostly men) working in this sector get caught up in thinking that the only answers is to be found in manmade, synthetic, ‘high-tech’ and mechanical solutions to all the problems. Often these solutions use more energy to create than they will save over the next 20 or 30 years, but their advocates are blind to this. This approach is preoccupied with saving operational energy and ignores embodied energy. Ignoring the energy consumed to solve the problems can make the problem worse not better. Even more worrying is that many of the conventional solutions to energy efficient buildings, and houses in particular, are using technological solutions that are mistaken and may fail or cause serious problems in the future. Super-insulated and so-called passive house buildings, using synthetic man- made materials, could be creating health problems and are dependent on mechanical solutions to try and mitigate problems of condensation and dampness. Problems of indoor air quality and the toxicity of materials are swept under the carpet in building systems that, when tested, fail to come anywhere near meeting the energy standards that are predicted. This is a scandal and it needs to be exposed, though it will need further research and more detailed analysis of failures, beyond what was possible in this book. What is particularly frustrating is that alternative and much better systems of construction using natural and renewable materials are available, and far more investment should be directed to developing these materials and sys- tems. Much more needs to be done to support the production of low impact materials at a local level in both developed and developing coun- tries. Unfortunately the emerging economies seem envious of expensive xiii natural (Bevan governments governments mainstream construction. mainstream Hemp Lime Construction (Woolley 2006) and (Woolley Natural Building natural renewable materials market moves forward. materials market moves natural renewable The case studies give some indication of how architects, specifiers, of how architects, The case studies give some indication in 2010 it seemed feasible to of the case studies began When this review Since have been built using UK projects published, many more 2008) were there housing projects, numerous materials. Apart from and renewable Central to this book is an account of a programme funded by the UK Labour funded by is an account of a programme Central to this book of natural renewable to encourage the use Government (2007–2010) as the Renewable construction; this became known materials in social housing varying levels of funded with were projects Twelve (RHP). House Programme 200 houses. The book of approximately leading to the construction subsidy, of and cons an insight into the pros studies providing contains twelve case in materials using innovative natural renewable high-tech resource-wasting solutions in the West and see low impact low impact see and in the West solutions resource-wasting high-tech multinational and powerful Large the clock back. as turning approaches materials, synthetic producing a lot of energy who consume companies, over government influence have much more trade associations, and their political issue and this is a policies. Ultimately and international the choice of materials and operate, in clients, builders and insurers industry in the UK and most construction techniques. The construction were natural building solutions, so there parts of the world tends not favour Technical alternative approach. coming to terms with an many problems serious enough to completely but none were apparent are problems and techniques. Despite the require- undermine confidence in the materials materials, funding to use renewable ments of the special government substituted synthetic materials projects particularly insulation, many of the insulation did not use any renewable for part of the construction and one many agencies and individuals involved materials at all! On the other hand, materials and had renewable happy to use unfamiliar techniques and were them or including them in the in substituting surprisingly few problems these projects, learned from were designs and construction. Many lessons and evaluation take as monitoring will become apparent and while more information to influence how is enough place over the next few years, there the meant funding requirements complete it within 18 months, as government at the time had to be completed by April 2010. However, that the projects still under construction were of writing (spring 2012), some of the projects due to issues other largely and some had only just started. The delays were than the use of natural materials. need to introduce much more stringent environmental and health limits to and health limits stringent environmental much more need to introduce and materials predominate. that benign methods ensure The expansion of natural building The Renewable House Programme The Renewable

Introduction xiv

The wider environmental agenda xv building problem that needs to be overcome that needs to be overcome problem One of the difficulties in advancing renewable and natural materials is in advancing renewable One of the difficulties The difficulties and problems associated with introducing sustainable sustainable with introducing associated problems and The difficulties many questions chapters that deal with the The book also includes Deeply embedded in the idea of using low impact materials, should be the Deeply embedded in the idea of using crises that face us. many environmental aim of helping humanity survive the about the real in a state of denial it is disturbing how many people are Yet is simply seen efficiency energy group, dangers. For the head-in-the-sand impact, or to the environmental as a way to cut running costs, whatever energy renewable expensive and ostentatious display wealth through with someone who wanted discussion arrays and wind turbines. In a recent in an environ- interested if they were a new house designed, when asked they wanted the house to be that mentally friendly design, they replied This friendly! want it to be environmentally but they didn’t efficient, energy is an indication of the major attitudinal readily better for health and the planet are that are materials before adopted by society. as fringe to the main construction that they can no longer be perceived and alternative materials natural, renewable Those who produce industry. and must engage with must have a sound economic basis for their products to market. This to get their products normal capitalist business approaches has happened quite successfully in Germany and some other European is still quite products for environmental countries, though the market share with into business relationships can lead producers small. Market pressures have been significant commercial, industrial and leisure buildings that have that have buildings leisure and industrial commercial, been significant have for construction, Hempcrete materials. and other natural used hemp storage warehouses food and wine numerous has been used in instance, for Marks and Spencer. Cheshire in superstore and a large industry and house building construction mainstream to the approaches book the in addition to the 12 RHP projects, wide-ranging. Thus, are projects housing highlighting some other interesting includes a chapter construction RHP but have used innovative not part of the that were synthetic petrochemical. both natural and approaches These include the building construction. efficient energy surrounding and sourcing materials available, supply chain and range of natural nature policies and environmental building regulations, issues, legislation, physics. The science of natural materials is very different from that of from of natural materials is very different physics. The science of thermal materials, particularly in terms based synthetic petrochemical design Buildability, and durability. management performance, moisture the attitudes of all the are there Finally, and detailing issues also vary. to reacting natural materials and how they are players towards different with an brief and innovative houses. The book concludes efficient energy materials both in the renewable for natural and appraisal of the likely future UK and internationally. The wider environmental agenda The wider environmental every happen dangerous dangerous (BBC News 2011) People don’t understand how People don’t , they argue. A government-sponsored A government-sponsored , they argue. emissions, but solutions and technologies 2 A solar panel factory in eastern China has been shut down after protests by after protests in eastern China has been shut down A solar panel factory over pollution fears. Some 500 villagers staged a three-day local residents Some in a local river. numbers of fish the death of large following protest offices destroying into the plant in Zhejiang province, demonstrators broke on being dispersed by riot police. Tests and overturning company cars before fluoride, which can be toxic in high water samples showed high levels of said. doses, officials Another problem results from confusion over the word ‘renewable’. ‘renewable’. over the word confusion from results Another problem There is no doubt that there is a need to change attitudes, but not just no doubt that there is There construction material and method is ‘green’ They pay for environmental They pay for environmental is ‘green’ construction material and method diluted to the are that and standards assessment methods, certificates everything seems to be they become meaningless. When point where that do work, and thus it is easy to lose sight of those solutions greenwash, tainted by consumer cynicism building materials can be natural renewable technologies efficiency the new energy about bogus claims. When some of of identifying the flaws in the work, as well as they should, instead don’t in the buildings for being too stupid technologies, they blame the people friendly way! not to live in an environmentally Confusion is caused by mainstream businesses who claim almost businesses Confusion is caused by mainstream house efficient to live in an energy conference even discussed what was termed ‘misuse of buildings’ (ESRC even discussed what was termed conference will have to embrace the need to 2009). It is clear that every householder CO and reduce save energy investors and others where the priority is to make money and the environ- and the money is to make priority the others where and investors building renewable The natural and less important. are mental objectives and also recession due to economic a tough time, going through sector is undermine that do not business models to develop successful they need to distinguish It is also hard products. quality of their the environmental and flawed solutions many other ‘greenwash’ from have to offer what they efficient. energy more to making buildings Generating energy. have nothing to do with renewable Renewable materials sustainable practice. Clearly alternatives is not always a energy renewable needed, but the manufactur- are oil and nuclear energy to fossil fuel, coal, and uses cells that pollutes local watercourses ing of photovoltaic materials is part of a technology that uses manmade, not renewable not renewable of a technology that uses manmade, materials is part materials: used to achieve this must be easy, simple to understand and user-friendly simple to understand and user-friendly used to achieve this must be easy, and safe. building occupants. It is changing the attitudes of the attitudes of ordinary that is the real scientists, academics and envirocrats the professionals, challenge. They have to be persuaded not to go running after the latest consider the environmental high-tech ‘snake oil’ solutions, but to carefully should be ethical, Proposals impact of what they do in a holistic way. and based on good science. Only then will we begin to see responsible this doesn’t One of the reasons genuinely sustainable ways forward.

Introduction xvi Chapter overview xvii science. (Moriarty, 2011) (Moriarty, allocate money with openness and fairness, allocate money with openness and The intrinsic value of intellectual enquiry and exploratory research is not a is not research of intellectual enquiry and exploratory The intrinsic value worryingly to UK research rather more (nor, to the Treasury concept easily sold potential for short demonstrate strong must research councils). … University worthy of funding. impact for it to be considered term (socio)-economic Chapter 2 gives more detail of the RHP with an account of each of the Chapter 2 gives more Chapter 3 is an account of the RHP itself with details of how it came the 12 from an analysis of the issues that emerged Chapter 4 provides and sustainability policy is In Chapter 5 the policy context of energy I believe that RHP was poorly conceived and was an example of poorly I believe that RHP was poorly conceived and will come a lot of useful experience and information has However, Government research funding in many advanced countries now expects countries now in many advanced funding research Government In Chapter 1 the nature of renewable materials is explored in greater depth. greater in materials is explored of renewable In Chapter 1 the nature they get into they made of and how do what are do they come from, Where artisan between is explored difference the construction supply chain? The highly processed more and and straw, and self-build materials such as earth The boards. insulation such as wood fibre products and manufactured between natural and synthetic materials also has to be difference drawbacks of normal building methods understood and the environmental considered. are 12 case study projects. about and how it was funded and managed by government agencies. case studies. the to see how this affects and internationally, examined in the UK, Europe As a result, there is a lack of good quality independent research into sus- quality independent research is a lack of good there As a result, physics and materials building and, in particular, tainable housing is discussed at some building physics and science The need for better approaches. account of current length with a critical action. Civil servants seem to government policy and thought through given a handout of a developers are assume that if industry and housing a few months, something – anything – few million pounds, to be spent in objectives, criteria and out- in defining will come out of it. The lack of care to comes and the failure is very disappointing and is independent monitoring, followed by careful dissected in Chapter 3. have despite its many flaws, and hopefully this book will the RHP, from lessons can be learned. that the appropriate ensured is due to the way in which research is now funded and directed, much of it much of and directed, funded is now research way in which to the is due interests. industrial vested linked to that excludes research and this on their investment return a quick business and sponsors you cannot find industrial and critical. If thoughtful is more solutions. innovative impossible to develop users it is almost immediate Chapter overview Issue 40 BRE Press 2008 BRE Press . Karaka Bay Press, Auckland 2009 . Karaka Bay Press, Crowood Press 2006 Press Crowood Hemp Lime Construction Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) Newsletter Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) Natural Building The Human House, Sustainable Design Handmade Houses: A Free-Spirited Century of Earth-Friendly Home Handmade Houses: A Free-Spirited , Rizzoli 2012 Chapter 6 is a discussion of building physics and science. Energy science. Energy discussion of building physics and Chapter 6 is a using (or outside the RHP, other examples of projects Chapter 7 outlines and materials the case for natural and renewable Chapter 8 examines 19 September 2011) (unpublished paper) 2012 new Low Impact Development Policies’ http://www.esrc.ac.uk/funding-and-guid ‘misuse’ buildings, 26 January 2009 ance/collaboration/seminars/archive/buildings.aspx autumn 2011. p.15 Design BBC News Asia Pacific www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-14968605 (viewed BBC News Asia Pacific www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-14968605 T. Bevan R. and Woolley under with Projects of Building regulations Dale S. and Saville J. ‘The Compatibility policy landscape how people use and ESRC seminar series mapping the public (viewed 15.3.12) http://www.lammas.org.uk/ Lammas Project (2011) Moriarty P. use of natural and renewable materials in the market for insulation and and for insulation market in the materials and renewable of natural use and in use between energy The difference materials. other construction why even the reason this is central to is discussed, as energy embodied to the even hostile or are people ignore progressive many environmentally of mainstream The weaknesses materials. natural and renewable case for for the future proposals and conventional of construction modern methods considered. and building are development of housing considered. and similar issues are health durability, performance, moisture, of materials and labelling of assessment, accreditation A critical evaluation of some of the research to this, and a review buildings is central and green in the field is provided. approaches. using) a range of alternative innovative in some cases not them in the future. for looks at the prospects Olsen R. T. Watkins T. Woolley References

Introduction xviii 1. Renewable and non-renewable materials

…many of us feel motivated to choose environmentally friendly products, even if they cost a little bit more. We know that products can be made from rare natural resources or from renewable raw materials, with or without unfair labour, with chemical input or from organic agriculture, with more or less energy based emissions. This is not a question of income but one of willingness. (Welteke-Fabricius 2011)

In order to understand why natural and renewable materials are beneficial in mainstream building construction it is necessary in this chapter to explain what these materials consist of and to compare them with more conven- tional products. This book focuses largely on timber frame construction, insulation and board and panel materials. From these materials it is possi- ble to construct many buildings that are required by society, even some multi-storey buildings. Environmental issues related to steel and concrete are not discussed in any detail here though they will be touched on in Chapter 6. For many practitioners of natural building around the world, this would be quite a narrow perspective, as natural builders will use a wide range of resources, local green timber, earth, straw, bamboo and whatever else is to hand. This approach was covered in another book (Woolley 2006), and there are many organisations offering services, training and advice on natural building in the UK and throughout the world. In this book, the aim is to concentrate on natural materials being used in mainstream construc- tion rather than handmade /self-build structures. Natural and renewable materials can be made from biological sources such as hemp, flax, wood, straw, sheep’s wool and so on. They can also be combined with benign or low impact materials such as lime and earth into composites. However, some natural materials also include synthetic additives that are intended to improve performance. A key issue here is the reasons for selecting such materials and also the reasons given for not

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. are also also are is used to is used to bio-based synthetic and product as it is made from as it is made from product natural ecological , but as with so much in the English lan- , but as with so much in the English natural However, there are many people, professionals and builders who over- and builders professionals many people, are there However, There is also a growing body of materials made from recycled materials recycled body of materials made from also a growing is There manmade’, but this is confusing as some of the natural renewable materi- some of the natural renewable manmade’, but this is confusing as Most construction materials used today involve a great deal of energy deal of energy today involve a great Most construction materials used must be quarried, They damage to produce. and much environmental of chemicals. Very with a range subjected to heat or treated processed, sources, petrochemical from or indirectly derived directly often they are manufacturing of the a by-product frequently and polluting emissions are materials will be referred For the purposes of this book, these process. to to as also referred are materials. Often such products as synthetic ‘ also manmade. The word are als discussed here selecting them. There is a great deal of prejudice against natural or unusual or unusual natural against prejudice deal of is a great There them. selecting materials also say that such 90% of people and in conversation materials the case and is usually is not always even though this ‘too expensive’, are not are that such materials people also fear ignorance. Many based on and long lasting. robust and renew- have been willing to give natural and come these prejudices to manmade synthetic products, chance, in preference able materials a in projects This is even the case do cost a little more. even when they social housing. One key to cost constraints, such as are there where right thing for the of commitment to doing the selection is the level environment. contrast with the word naturally occurring rock. However, the process of melting the rock and and of melting the rock the process However, naturally occurring rock. natural and can safely be is far from then binding it with chemical glues insulation mate- to as synthetic. On the other hand, many natural referred have manmade glues and wool or hemp may also rials such as sheep’s to them to make them perform bet- binders and other chemicals added and binders many natural materials use natural glues, resins However, ter. Other terms such as or simply water. guage there are problems of definition. Mineral wool insulation, for insulation, for of definition. Mineral wool problems are guage there to as a instance, is sometimes referred materials. used to describe natural renewable acceptable. as environmentally such as glass and plastic that many regard seem as there to as renewable even referred materials are These recycled society. to be unlimited amounts of waste materials in our throwaway significant amounts of heat materials require some recycled However, and judgement, them. An environmental to convert chemical processes is based on scientific evidence and independent certification, when this before available, has to be made about the impact of these processes to understand the acceptable. In order deciding whether such materials are materials, we first have to distinctive characteristics of natural, renewable understand the limitations of synthetic products. Synthetic, manmade materials Synthetic, manmade

Renewable and non-renewable materials 2

Limitations of synthetic materials 3 emissions, emissions, claims for 2 stone-based volcanic diabase (Rockwool 2011) one of the most sus- sustainability , and its CO , and its renewed naturally occurring . During its long lifetime, a typical . During its long ’. sustainable damage to the environment. To be regarded as sustainable, as sustainable, be regarded To damage to the environment. manufacturing, cannot be recovered. manufacturing, cannot Rockwool is an environmentally conscious company with a long track-record conscious company with a long track-record Rockwool is an environmentally assessments, to independent according of producing, tainable insulation products available products tainable insulation invested than 100 times the energy saves more product Rockwool insulation Rockwool insu- and ultimate disposal. Therefore, transport in its manufacture, efficient and environmentally lation is one of the most practical, cost-effective consump- energy their can reduce ways that homeowners and organisations natural and recycled from their carbon footprint. Created tion and improve Stone wool is made by melting products, from selected by-products briquettes, made with carefully recycled and rock employs process production our own and other industries. Our high-tech and other cleaning collection systems to after-burners filters, pre-heaters, (emphasis added) approach. responsible environmentally an ensure However, many companies make strong environmental claims in favour environmental many companies make strong However, Stating that rock wool is one of the most sustainable products available available wool is one of the most sustainable products Stating that rock insulation product is ‘ insulation product of non-renewable products. For instance Rockwool says that its For instance products. of non-renewable from from There is little doubt that stone based insulations can be useful products, can be useful products, is little doubt that stone based insulations There though many natural safety characteristics, particularly because of their fire aim performance. The resistance also have good fire products renewable be used, as they might be is not to suggest that they should never here the specifier is confronted the best material for a particular job. However, or synthetic the use of renewable with a simple choice when considering the and needs to question some of products such products. instance Rockwool states on its website; ‘Rockwool is For happens to the mysterious though it is not clear what 97% recyclable’, 3% something being that It also states correctly that is not recyclable. recycled. not mean that it is actually recyclable does to be sustainable, In order is based on a flawed definition of sustainability. human based on the Brundtland definition (Brundtland 1987), requires materi- generations, so non-renewable future activity not to compromise and for manufacture, deal of fossil fuel energy als (that use a great to as sustaina- should not be referred that cannot be renewed) resources but it is the efficiency ble. Stone wool insulation may help with energy the material, that is doing in the short term, to manufacture used energy the greater of added toxic chemicals and be able to free materials should be largely may not meet this standard. Stone wool products be disposed of safely. The key difference between natural and synthetic materials is the concept materials natural and synthetic between The key difference spun into mineral been melted and has of rock Once a load of renewability. earth and certainly to the easily be returned it cannot wool insulation be again so it cannot grown cannot be Limitations of synthetic materials of synthetic Limitations (Black Mountain 2011) ment for the use of high embodied energy or petro- energy embodied use of high for the ment The Mineral Wool Insulation Manufacturers Association (MIMA) challenged Association (MIMA) challenged Insulation Manufacturers The Mineral Wool whether the claim was misleading and could be substantiated, because Sheep’s wool is biodegradable and therefore can be composted into the be composted into the can therefore wool is biodegradable and Sheep’s natural cycle. part of the earth’s to enrich the soil and remain ground addi- or incinerated to produce wool insulation can be recycled Sheep’s no have materials currently man-made mineral fibre whereas tional energy, disposed of system in place and can only be properly practical recycling into landfill sites. Black Mountain Ltd, one of the leading UK manufacturers of natural insu- UK manufacturers Black Mountain Ltd, one of the leading It is possible that stone wool products can be recycled if the building if the building can be recycled stone wool products It is possible that A complaint was made about this to the Advertising Standards Authority A complaint was made about this to the Advertising Standards Association (MIMA) Insulation Manufacturers (ASA) by the Mineral Wool did but the ASA found in favour of Black Mountain, as they said that MIMA any solid evidence of recycling. not provide Most of the manufacturers of synthetic insulation materials make claims of synthetic insulation Most of the manufacturers to claim a good envi- content in their materials of recycled about the role all recovered they can recycle performance. They state that ronmental so it makes one suspect that figures, material in their factory but never give that are products a few synthetic are these claims may be misleading. There to distinguish materials but it is often hard recycled made from largely of the perhaps only a tiny proportion where other products these from sources. recycled material is from insulation was not that mineral fibre lations, claimed on its website in 2011, to claim wrong were of these products and that manufacturers recycled that this was the case. There may be an argu may be There as aluminium or quantities, such used in small based products chemical or political is a social policy will do the job. This nothing else plastics, when is the ‘most says its product like Rockwool but if a manufacturer decision, investigating believe it, without seems to the average specifier sustainable’, any further. the claim insulation can dismantled so that the is carefully containing the materials happens in practice. Synthetic but this rarely reused, be taken out and if disturbed dirty and damp and fall apart insulations often become fibre synthetic insu- commonly, impossible. More almost and this makes reuse biodegrade do not waste in landfill. Mineral fibres lations end up as into the sites can and general mess on building Also, the off-cuts earth. going to waste amount of new insulation material lead to a significant and landfill. Questioning claims about recycling

Renewable and non-renewable materials 4

Questioning claims about recycling 5 standards standards (ASA 2011) . (emphasis . (emphasis recycled raw recycled (WRAP 2012) and/or we consid- However, demolition work. or refurbishment recycling where it was in the form of construction off-cuts or or off-cuts the form of construction it was in where recycling these criticisms are refuted by the manufacturers refuted these criticisms are Contributes to improved indoor air quality compared to our conventional indoor air quality compared Contributes to improved mineral wool lower embodied energy through Reduces impact on environment Reduces pollutant manufacturing emissions and workplace exposures

ered that that statement did not in itself constitute evidence that that evidence that that itself constitute did not in that that statement ered MMMF, of end of life significant quantities recycled manufacturer particular of used system in place for the recycling was a generally nor that there was concluded … that there We of end of life MMMF. significant quantities of significant quantities system in place for recycling not a generally used end of life MMMF. materials, and bonded using a bio-based technology free from formaldehyde, from materials, and bonded using a bio-based technology free phenols, and acrylics and with no artificial colours, bleach or dyes added t t t The natural brown colour represents a level of sustainability and handling a level of sustainability colour represents The natural brown naturally occurring from never achieved: Manufactured The principal limitations to recycling insulation materials is the difficulty of of insulation materials is the difficulty The principal limitations to recycling glass and polyure- the material, particularly in the case of fibre processing is of fibreglass the recycling thane foam insulation. For example although significant i.e. noxious emis- are technically feasible, the practical issues It the fibres. binder when remelting the organic from produced sions are facilities and recycling of sufficient has also been identified that the lack potential of insulation, limiting the recycling are associated infrastructure although they understood that mineral wool insulation could be recycled. We noted noted We be recycled. could insulation wool that mineral understood they MIMA website manufacturers Mineral Fibre) (Man Made that the MMMF of their the return encouraged manufacturer to, stated that the referred for product from reclaimed added) Some synthetic fibre insulations are made, in part, from recycled materials materials recycled from made, in part, insulations are Some synthetic fibre by produced mineral wool product, such as waste glass. A glass based friendly than environmentally as more Knauf, called ECOSE is marketed is content. The product due to its claimed recycled conventional glass fibre rather than the normal yellow or pink. brown coloured While site management practices have improved significantly in recent in recent significantly practices have improved While site management insula- skips to assist recycling, separated into different years and waste is Despite the existence of WRAP end up being recycled. rarely tion off-cuts which was established by the UK Action Programme) and Resources (Waste no robust of materials, recycling Government in 2000, to promote for measuring recycled content of construction materials has been estab- content of construction for measuring recycled quoted such as ISO often management standards, lished. Environmental tick box exercises. largely 14001, are O), 2 (Knauf 2011) (Marques 2011) (Marques considering material choice. be about 60–80% based on recycled materials, though though materials, be about 60–80% based on recycled (emphasis added) (emphasis may Improving the overall sustainability of buildings in which they are incorpo- are they in which of buildings overall sustainability the Improving rated

Monday, 21 February 2011 Monday, ads held unlawful Rockwool fire plc has just won a trade Kingspan Group Building solutions manufacturer to a press mark and advertising dispute against Rockwool Limited. According Mr Justice & Co., who acted for the victorious company, Wragge from release Kitchin, in the Chancery Division of the High Court (England and Wales) which found that a series of Rockwool demonstrations and video recordings, was performance of Kingspan and Rockwool products, the fire compared misleading and failed to comply with the Misleading and Comparative The judge also ruled that Rockwool took unfair advan- Advertising Directive. trade marks, causing damage to its reputation. tage of Kingspan’s t The insulation materials that are made from recycled sources such such sources recycled from made The insulation materials that are There have been a significant number of judgements against mainstream against mainstream have been a significant number of judgements There While the ECOSE product may be based on glass cullet (recycled glass) glass) may be based on glass cullet (recycled product While the ECOSE thermo set, inert polymer bonding agent derived from plant starches plant starches agent derived from thermo set, inert polymer bonding (Earthwool 2010). as glass not has to consider analysis of such products Environmental all are. recy- both the of the material – especially that which is not from source and any chem- used in manufacture the amount of energy cled sources – as Corning’s such products added. Some recycled icals that are as regarded and are certification ‘Foamglass’ have achieved ‘Natureplus’ other However, benign (Foamglass 2012). environmentally relatively This presents risks. environmental materials still present recycled of choices, highlighted in Table 1.1. consumers and specifiers with a set or recycled based on renewable Deciding whether to use materials and subjective choice. Some nat- materials may ultimately be a complex material such as waste recycled ural insulation materials may also include take into account all but it is important to wood fibre wool or recycled when the other factors listed in the Table 1.1 insulation companies about advertising claims...here is an example: claims...here insulation companies about advertising What is interesting about Knauf’s marketing is that they imply in the above imply in the above is that they marketing about Knauf’s What is interesting of indoor air in terms have problems may that other products statement, attractive. They also sell a product less environmentally quality and are informed to poorly which could give the impression called ‘earthwool’ earth derived from this is a natural product its name, that people, from 2012). rather than glass (Knauf binder is free state what the formaldehyde does not always Knauf’s still found in many but it is made of. is a known carcinogen Formaldehyde building The some kinds of glass-based insulation. including products K + materials used are and safety data sheet states that the Earthwool health NaO + MgO + earth (CaO (mmvf), alkali and alkaline fibre vitreous

Renewable and non-renewable materials 6

Resource consumption problem with synthetic materials 7 Some synthetic materials have good sound absorbency but most do not Many synthetic materials are Many synthetic materials are not as durable as is assumed much more though some are than others Most synthetic materials do not contribute to thermal mass Synthetic materials can be waste classified as hazardous use sources, recycled from chemical blowing agents Some products are based on are Some products but very little resources recycled evidence of the finished product being recycled Either neutral or negative on IAQ Some synthetic materials are are Some synthetic materials not but most are breathable Most synthetic insulations do Most synthetic insulations not have this ability Most synthetic insulations Most synthetic insulations to absorb are unable fall apart as a moisture; some wetting, others are of result unaffected Some synthetic products are are Some synthetic products others can fall apart very robust; quite quickly Some products involve toxic involve Some products glues, formaldehyde Can be high, e.g. from melting e.g. from Can be high, superior ability to absorb sound more durable than is assumed and more can survive wetting varying levels of thermal mass, thermal perfor- which improves mance Natural materials can decay back into the earth far but some include recycled and far but some include recycled waste materials. Best if not in composite form good IAQ, some products like good IAQ, some products wool, claim that it absorbs sheep’s formaldehyde breathable and moisture permeable and moisture breathable regulate humidity regulate Some natural insulations are able to are Some natural insulations very well, but some handle moisture to dry out can degrade if not able highly robust be low impact Natural renewable Synthetic Usually low but energy is used in but energy Usually low processing There is little doubt that it is environmentally beneficial to use recycled beneficial to use recycled is little doubt that it is environmentally There such as waste glass. When we go to the bottle bank we want to resources end believe that this material is going to be used for something and not The matter. and stone is a different using rock up in landfill. However, Comparing natural and synthetic materials and synthetic natural Comparing (embodied energy) (embodied Resource consumption problem with synthetic materials consumption problem Resource Acoustic performance Most natural materials have a Durability much Most natural materials are Ozone depletionThermal mass No or low negative effect Most natural materials contain even Many synthetic products, End-of-life disposal and pollution Recycling so recycling Limited knowledge of Indoor air quality (IAQ) Most natural insulations help with Breathability are Most natural materials Table 1.1 1.1 Table Moisture bufferingMoisture can help to Many natural insulations Ability to handle moisture Robustness claim to be Some natural insulations Added chemicals claimed to added but are Glues are Energy used in manufac- Energy ture attractive (Bioregional 2012) (Bioregional multinational cement company, Lafarge (ex Redland (ex Lafarge cement company, multinational Using sustainable and healthy products, such as those with low embodied Using sustainable and healthy products, or waste resources… renewable made from locally, sourced energy, Rockwool go one stage further than saying there is an unlimited supply supply is an unlimited stage further than saying there Rockwool go one financially has been a in Northern Ireland Quarrying aggregates envi- when sourcing consumption is a critical factor The issue of resource But this can be interpreted as the nearest supplier rather than the actual as the nearest But this can be interpreted the materials. The origins of materials have to be traced beyond of source of local sourcing For this reason or stored. manufactured are they where criterion as a very useful environmental materials should not be regarded literally obtained unless the materials are and it can often be greenwash, like One Planet Living give general guid- Standards site or nearby. the from a full carbon footprint and analysis of embodied ance but do not require being developers and builders to suggest that they are so it allows energy, cement and concrete industry sometimes argue that, as the planet is made is made as the planet that, argue sometimes industry and concrete cement the disruption ignores This rather round! is plenty to go there of rock, and massive excavators with in the ground digging big holes caused by For areas! or sensitive beautiful often in environmentally explosions, one instance, island, on a Scottish mountain an entire wanted to demolish Aggregates), envi- have been countless 2012). There a ‘super quarry’ (McIntosh creating not be regarded may against quarries, and while rock campaigns ronmental criteria of extraction is a key environmental control resource, as a scarce (Earthfirst 2011). stone, it is as their raw material is volcanic that, of stone by arguing They volcanic eruptions! because of regular material almost a renewable is 38,000 tonnes of new diabase material ‘Thanks to volcanic activity say, they use’(Rockwool 2012). Of course than they every year more created instead that material for insulation, stating use this new volcanic don’t (op. cit.). Rockwool years old stone in ‘Ireland’ is 200 million their source from Bridgend, South Wales, (at the time of writing) in is manufactured Belfast to and shipped from Ireland basalt stone, quarried in Northern the is not far away from of the basalt quarries The bedrock South Wales. basalt is about 60 million Causeway world heritage site. This Giant’s volcanic of recent years old not as a result (not 200 million) and certainly activity! waived the EU Aggregates Government option as the Northern Ireland have in the province the price of the material. Quarries thus reducing Levy, UK the Levy exemption, whereas been paying 40p per tonne under A legal judgement in 2010 had to pay £2.00 per tonne. mainland producers but the matter still hasn’t that the waiver of this levy was illegal declared 2012). at the time of writing (AGGNet been resolved una- are often designers and specifiers friendly materials. Very ronmentally is with getting preoccupation of the origin of materials, as their main ware of materi- sourcing for local and WWF argue the building built. Bioregional als in their One Planet Living standard.

Renewable and non-renewable materials 8

Renewable materials – insulation 9 Basalt quarry in Northern Ireland (source http//www.stonedatabase.com/). http//www.stonedatabase.com/). (source Basalt quarry in Northern Ireland If we are serious about safeguarding the planet for future generations we generations the planet for future serious about safeguarding If we are Insulation materials made from hemp and sheep’s wool are renewable renewable are wool sheep’s hemp and Insulation materials made from again next again and the sheep sheared because the hemp can be grown quite new to the materials are natural and renewable As most of the year. but some so far, evidence of the extent of recycling is little there industry, content. The issue becomes a little natural materials can include recycled while being a because timber, with wood based products complicated more take a on an annual basis, as trees material, cannot be replaced renewable wood made from are products Also some wood fibre lot longer to grow. of another as using a by-product waste but this is not so much recycling and wood chipboards wood fibre In some products activity. wood processing they can be made with other products but timber, virgin may be made from mixed sources. made from are products wood. Some recovered from green by making vague assertions about ‘local sourcing’. If materials such sourcing’. by making vague assertions about ‘local green woodland surrounding from dug up on the site or timber felled as earth are and valid form of local sourcing adjoining fields, then this is a or straw from Obtaining a that have put this into practice. excellent projects are there is not local sourcing! merchant a nearby builder’s material from materials. This is one of the should try to limit the use of non-renewable materials. for using bio-based, natural and renewable reasons strongest Figure 1.1 Figure Ltd. Design Group by permission of Stone Conservation Services, Consarc Reproduced Renewable materials – insulation

2 database emissions can be seen as 2 . Sheep’s wool does . Sheep’s is locked up in a natural product is a is locked up in a natural product 2 carbon sequestration reductions afforded by sequestration, embodied energy by sequestration, embodied energy afforded reductions 2 synthetic materials can never do. Mineral Wool at 16.6 MJ/kg at 16.6 Mineral Wool MJ/kg, at 28 Fibreglass/Glasswool MJ/kg. Flax at 39.5 Despite the CO Natural and renewable natural materials have a number of advantages of advantages a number have materials natural and renewable Natural offsetting the energy used to produce a material. Not all environmentalists a material. Not all environmentalists used to produce the energy offsetting have used some Materials like hemp and timber will with this view. agree natural prod- and frequently and transport fuel in harvesting, processing not fossil fuel free. bags so they are ucts arrive on site wrapped in plastic by is reduced burden despite this, the overall environmental However, the fact plant based materials have locked up carbon when growing that which does not list other more common natural products. It should be obvious common natural products. does not list other more °C uses more at over 1500 that involves melting solid rock that a product wool like flax. In some cases rock based product a crop than energy heated using waste incineration, so possibly avoiding a high are products Anyone looking superficially at this would draw the conclusion that natural Anyone looking superficially at this would draw the conclusion that natural than synthetics. First of all this insulations have a higher embodied energy on the market (the almost no flax insulation products are is strange as there available is a mix of flax and hemp) and yet the ICE only one readily for some natural products and much lower levels for some synthetic and much lower for some natural products draw on information from This is because very few databases products. other claims from but instead reproduce their own original research, University (Bath 2012) Bath For instance the ICE database from sources. page: on its summary figures give the following embodied energy not have this advantage, as sheep can also be blamed for methane emis- as sheep can also be blamed not have this advantage, cattle (Fairlie 2010). is not as serious as from sions, though this an edge over materials has given natural renewable Carbon sequestration seen as ‘carbon negative’. However, synthetic materials as they can be term – carbon positive would sound carbon negative is not a very helpful better! Calculating how much CO over synthetic products such as those discussed above, even if they are are even if they discussed above, such as those products over synthetic materials natural renewable This is because materials. recycled made from significantly they are and embodied energy have a much lower generally with less made are as they indoor air quality, terms of health and better in during man- pollution risk have a much lower Similarly they toxic materials. significant of at the end of life. Perhaps most and when disposed ufacture having absorbed CO of plant based materials as of all is the characteristic as which is known during growth, databases frequently show higher levels of energy use and carbon use show higher levels of energy databases frequently controversial area and there are no internationally accepted standards for no internationally accepted standards are and there area controversial by some that locked in CO it is argued this yet. However, Carbon sequestration and embodied energy Carbon sequestration

Renewable and non-renewable materials 10 Natural renewable materials commercially available score for using fossil fuels. If you are unable to interrogate the build-up of figures in embodied energy databases it is important to remain sceptical about what is published. What is good about the Bath data- base is that details of the original source are given on a spreadsheet so the source can be checked. In this case of flax versus rockwool, the figures come from a Danish study that has hundreds of citations due to its conclusions that rockwool had the best LCA rating (Schmidt et al. 2004). The methodology used by the authors of this study provide a useful insight into the way in which LCA results can be determined by the assumptions used. There is the danger that users of such databases simply look at the sim- plified published figures without looking to see where they came from, which means that commercially driven research takes on an unwarranted authority.

Performance and Durability of natural materials

Natural materials perform very differently to synthetic products. They can be more robust, provide better energy performance and cope with mois- ture and humidity. Ironically this is the one aspect most quickly discounted by those hostile to natural materials as there is an assumption that synthetic products will inevitably be more robust and effective. There is a growing body of practical experience and scientific evidence that shows that natural materials can have a better performance than synthetic materials. Unfortunately standards and regulations can be stacked against natural materials and examples of this are discussed in later chapters. Breathability and moisture permeability are crucial issues in well-insulated buildings as there is increased risk of humidity and condensation, as dis- cussed in more detail in Chapter 6 . Natural insulations are able to ‘breathe’ and vapour can pass through the material. Rock and glass fibre products can also be regarded as breathable though some are classified as semi-permea- ble. Other synthetic insulation boards made from polyurethane, polystyrene etc. have very limited ability to breathe and handle moisture. Natural insulations can retain their thickness better than some synthetics and can recover more quickly if they get wet. Finally natural materials also possess thermal mass and the ability to store heat and react to building conditions in a dynamic way. The ability to store heat can make a significant difference to improved insulation and thermal performance. Natural mate- rials will vary in this respect quite significantly but all are much better in this way than synthetic materials, which possess almost no heat storage capac- ity. Table 1.1 summarises these issues.

Natural renewable materials commercially available

We will now look at the main natural renewable materials commercially available for mainstream construction. 11 indicate that material, the is not used instead of hemp. Such questions usually is not used instead of hemp. Such questions Hemp is a very strong and tough plant and needs special processing. The tough plant and needs special processing. and Hemp is a very strong chips, miscanthus or jute or other It is a common question why wood A wide range of hemp fibre insulation products are available from compa- available from are insulation products A wide range of hemp fibre with France, Germany and Poland being the main Europe, nies throughout and manufacturing of hemp for industry processing The growing, sources. only a is now big business, and materials for construction using hemp are Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA small part of the market. The European in 2012, covering hemp 2012) is holding its 9th international conference Hemp fibre is used to make insulation quilts and boards. Sometimes it is Sometimes quilts and boards. to make insulation is used Hemp fibre or to marijuana Hemp is similar Industrial fibre. flax or wood mixed with throughout is widely grown drug content. Hemp but with minimal cannabis a is claimed, has over the world and, it other parts of and many Europe, and seed for oil from undated; McCabe 2010). Apart 1000 uses (Robinson and a used for clothing, automobile interiors hemp is food production, needs permis- Hemp often composites. Growing wide range of bio-plastic drugs, and because of concern about illegal the authorities sion from and some of hemp, in the USA allow the growing although most countries easy to grow Hemp is relatively remain. prejudices strong Muslim countries and shiv (straw) The hemp fibres in agriculture. crop and is used as a break is also high in silica. high in lignin and the shiv are (the woody shiv or hurd The leftover the shiv. has to be stripped from fibre can be has been stripped, valuable fibre or straw) after the more core but lightweight insulating con- a solid mixed with a lime binder to create 2008). (Bevan and Woolley crete plant fibre because of its cannabis con- against hemp the questioner has a prejudice have not been very success- nection. Experiments using other alternatives capacity of handling and moisture lack the strength ful as the plant fibres wood chips do exist, but they mixing cement with hemp. Some products and lime composite. of the hemp the insulating properties do not provide solid an insulating, breathable creates Mixing the shiv with a lime binder in this book. Water in the case studies strongly wall system which features and the mix can be cast like concrete is added to the hemp and lime, as an insulating plaster or made into between shuttering, sprayed, used of the right proportions blocks. It is very important to use mix when cast is The too much water. right mix of lime binder and not almost straight away, enough for the shuttering to be removed strong 12–14 hours. It then takes a few weeks though it is usually left in place for over a period of it becomes stronger to dry and as the lime carbonates as painting must be left until the wall months. Plastering and finishes such been used in as it is sometimes called, has Hempcrete, dry. is reasonable floors though its normal use in the UK is in walls. and roofs Hemp fibre insulation Hemp fibre Hemp, hemp lime, hemp ‘concrete’ or hempcrete ‘concrete’ lime, hemp hemp Hemp,

Renewable and non-renewable materials 12

Natural renewable materials commercially available 13 There are numerous organisations promoting and studying strawbales promoting organisations numerous are There the strawbale project, highly engineered a more to produce In an effort Flax is not as tough as hemp but it can also be used for insulation, though Flax is not as tough as hemp but it can The shiv or straw from hemp and flax is referred to above, but generally to above, hemp and flax is referred The shiv or straw from oats, barley, wheat, as the waste material from straw is normally regarded oblong bales in the Straw can be baled into crops. rice and other cereal to building. This is often referred field and these can be used in strawbale little sense to use hay for this purpose in the UK as hay bales, but it makes Strawbale rapidly than straw. more as it is a food material and may decay world, but particularly in the USA and building can be found all over the Construction 2012). (Strawbale EU 2012; Strawbale Europe throughout been seen as a form of construction for ama- Strawbale building has largely number of buildings built by a growing are teur self-builders but there contractors (see Chapter 7). mainstream and straw as a building material (Ecobuildnet 2012; The Last Straw 2012, avail- GSBN 2012) and considerable knowledge and scientific data is now in able. Strawbale building has been incorporated into building codes seems to be a constant struggle some parts of the USA, though there 2012). about straw (DCAT against prejudice system has been developed and is being used for one of Modcell off-site Flax is sometimes confused with hemp but is quite different. Flax is used to but is quite different. Flax is sometimes confused with hemp (linseed also known as flax food crop make linen clothing and is also a seed). and other composite boards commonly mixed with hemp. Flax it is more Insulation products. available but not as common as hemp are products and blending hemp made in Denmark from are such as ‘Breathe’ products 2012). flax (Breathe seed as an anti-ageing dietary supplement to soaps, foods, medical treat- medical foods, to soaps, supplement dietary as an anti-ageing seed and shiv for building. boards particle well as polymer composites, ments as with it is blended ways. Sometimes is made in several insulation Hemp fibre also added are fibres and usually polyester or cotton waste flax, wood using other natural can be made insulation fibre 15%). Hemp (usually about hemp The preferred. seems to be polyester but commercially additives, or low den- substitute for glass fibre as a direct insulation can be used fibre borate usually a retardant, a fire with treated are fibres sity stone wool. The the poly- usually play down compound. Manufacturers or phosphate based the other- as this takes away from components ester and flame retardant materials. Both borate and phosphate of the nature wise natural and organic long-term aim issues and the environmental raise difficult retardants fire use of such materials. will be to avoid the Straw and straw composite boards Flax developed. The marketing of sheep’s wool tends to emphasise the benefits to local wool tends to emphasise The marketing of sheep’s Cereal straw can also be combined, as with hemp and wood fibre, into wood fibre, as with hemp and also be combined, straw can Cereal Bamboo has recently been described as ‘green gold’. Production and use gold’. Production been described as ‘green Bamboo has recently widely understood. of bamboo is booming as its advantages become more world uses. The current Bamboo can rival hemp for having even more Sheep’s wool insulation is currently made in the UK, though a number of in the UK, though a number of made wool insulation is currently Sheep’s It has become countries. other European imported from are products well the pioneering work of UK market through established in the in 2001 (Thermafleece 2012). ‘Thermafleece’ in Cumbria established including range of products a offers Thermafleece, based in Cumbria wool Mountain sheep’s plastic insulation. Black hemp and recycled and the initial processing However, insulation, is made in North Wales. out in Yorkshire wool insulation is carried of sheep’s some manufacture dates back to the 18th century. wool manufacture where Marketing the British Wool through farmers but most wool is bought be determined as cannot always or imported, and thus the source Board, and the manufacturer always changing. It is best to quiz are market forces insulation may be made with a polyester binder supplier about this. Wool can be altered insulation effectiveness but some makes do not use this. The is subject to fairly aggressive The wool by the manufacturing process. borate chemicals such as sodium and pest retardant cleaning, and fire mois- handling wool is hygroscopic, normally added. Sheep’s (borax) are chemicals such as formalde- very well and is also able to absorb toxic ture hyde. It is not the farm, as is straight from a good idea to use fleeces with contaminated smelly, be very dirty, sometimes suggested, as wool can have been stories of There sheep dip and subject to insect infestations. wool insulation but little solid moth infestation associated with sheep’s In the long term, ‘borax’ treatment this has occurred. evidence of where by some as toxic and alternative as it is regarded may be inappropriate are being treatments the case study projects. This has attracted research funding, and a test and a test funding, research has attracted This projects. study the case (Balehaus 2012). at Bath University has been constructed building and 1970s in the 1960s was very common Strawboard and panels. boards in when it was used gained a bad reputation widely used but and was Despite in rot. not dry out, resulting it got wet and could where situations today, still around are that incorporated Stramit boards this, many buildings in Sweden has returned of strawboards years the manufacture and in recent together by with heat and bound straw is compressed and Australia. The Swedish word added glues. Stramit is the without resins the natural internal for straw. Bamboo Sheep’s wool Sheep’s

Renewable and non-renewable materials 14

Natural renewable materials commercially available 15 Black Mountain factory, North Wales wool processing North Wales Black Mountain factory, Black Mountain factory Figure 1.2 Figure Figure 1.3 Figure Timber is the most familiar renewable material. Responsible forestry should material. Responsible forestry Timber is the most familiar renewable – but with multiple replanting any timber felled is replaced that ensure material it Thus while wood is a renewable many years to grow. take trees as quickly as materials such as hemp and bamboo. cannot be replaced and valuable as one of the most precious Timber should be regarded and and woodland should be retained on the planet. Forests resources but thinned as part sustainably managed so that timber is not clear-felled management. Timber is used for many low value uses such as of proper hemp and biofuels and fuel. Paper can be made from paper production and thinning so as to save cropping short rotation should only come from timber for higher value uses. Corkboard and insulation is one of the most natural of products, stripped natural of products, and insulation is one of the most Corkboard Portugal, and it suber) in countries such as (Quercus the cork oak tree from particularly acoustic insulation. Cork can be used for excellent thermal and so that they steam treated cork that are insulation is made with granules of It is used as an alternative to in the cork. bond together using natural resins systems, even combined external insulation stone wool in some proprietary Cork is also used as a wall based materials. with synthetic petrochemical than synthetic insulations expensive lining material. Cork is usually more years as other renewable in recent and has become less commonly used it is a material available. However, and low impact materials have become other considering where and is always worth with excellent properties not suitable (Corklink 2012). materials are market is $10 million but this is growing rapidly. Unfortunately bamboo is bamboo Unfortunately rapidly. growing but this is million is $10 market and this may markets and futures on the commodity being traded already make trading try to use it to and dealers potential as financiers distort its as one of the fastest also rivals hemp 2012). Bamboo (Ecoplanet profits be used as material. It can a renewable is thus ideal as plants, and growing of composite a wide range also converted into material and is a structural in Western So far bamboo is not widely used such as flooring. products excellent substitute in building construction but is an temperate countries the developing countries where many poorer timber in for slow growth and China bamboo. It has been used in Japan growing climate is ideal for more Asia. It is also becoming also common throughout for centuries and is tem- in more grown and Latin America. Bamboo can be important in South houses are bamboo is usually imported. Prefabricated perate climates but in on bamboo is a substantial literature 2012). There available (Bamboo be used as 2012). Bamboo can and building (Worldbamboo architecture sheet possible to use it to make corrugated poles or split. It is even round material. Wood Cork

Renewable and non-renewable materials 16

Natural renewable materials commercially available 17 Forest Stewardship Council (FSC 2012) certification provides some guar- some provides certification 2012) (FSC Council Stewardship Forest material it should be FSC cer- as a renewable If timber is to be regarded wonderful material should be this resource a precious Because timber is and melamine can also con- PVA Glues based on isocyanates, phenols, saw- shavings, from made is also a wide range of timber products There Wood fibre is the generic term for a wide range of products, which which is the generic term for a wide range of products, fibre Wood and insulation batts. Most peo- semi-rigid boards include rigid boards, of ple in the construction industry will be familiar with a wide range antee that responsible forestry practices are being followed but there is a followed but there being practices are forestry responsible antee that sold for building certification. Timber about FSC deal of confusion great usually means but this to as FSC certified, is usually referred construction companies and timber frame suppliers, joinery Timber an FSC source. from certifica- as chain of custody have what is known should all and contractors to referred often PEFC is another certification standard, tion – very few do. FSC industry whereas but PEFC is run by the timber as equivalent to FSC, 2012; PEFC 2009). is independent (FSC like to use cedar cladding Architects sourced. locally tified and preferably used this material. of the case studies in this book has for instance; one lot of is a cedar ‘with FSC’, but there claim to offer Most supply companies FSC locally sourced that is not certified. Cladding using cedar being sold environmentally fir is generally viewed as more or Douglas certified larch acceptable. on has a beneficial effect The natural warmth of timber used sparingly. be used in such a way that the timber people in buildings and thus it should amounts buildings contain large Far too many can be seen and appreciated. and roof sections for floor such as large unnecessary, of timber that are made, addi- are insulation thickness As demands for greater structures. Double again wasting timber. deeper frames, tional timber is used to create thick- to give greater used simply timber sections are stud frames and large this. Composite timber prod- design can avoid ness of insulation. Careful and can make use of economical much more ucts such as I-beams are glu-lam and cross- such as LVL, Other products quality timber. poorer resources economical use of timber more laminated timber make better, Conventional glues used. are concerned about the glues that but some are varying levels of formalde- have contained in composite timber products as carcinogenic. hyde which is classified in some countries are Composite timber manufacturers tain formaldehyde but some do not. has to query the constituents. open about glues and so the specifier rarely these prod- Some of timber. recycled dust and wood waste, chipped and also but pressure heat and water, ucts may be made using natural binders, Sweden, Austria and India, once made in Italy, boards, glues. Woodwool mostly common again. These are also becoming more widely used are friendly products environmentally bound with Portland cement but more use magnesium and calcium silicates. Timber composites and wood fibre

UD ® (Hofatex 2012) System). This is not just a surface treatment; this hydrophobiser this hydrophobiser System). This is not just a surface treatment; ® wood-fibre boards include only natural materials which cause no include only natural materials which boards wood-fibre ® health problems. They are predominantly (up to 98%) comprised of wood predominantly They are health problems. added are starch and natural natural substances such as paraffin Only fibres. insulation mate- fibre As opposed to most some of the properties. to improve water resist- increase formaldehyde. To rials, they contain no carcinogenic (Hofatex is added to some of the boards ance, a natural hydrophobiser Hofatex and Hofatex is added when the fibre suspension is created, i.e. the entire thickness of the thickness i.e. the entire suspension is created, is added when the fibre sides. The and consequently on both water resistance have greater boards the wood from removes Hofatex wood fibreboards for producing wet process the final product which attract insects and pests. Conversely, all the aromatics a biological point of view, 7-8% humidity content. From has an approximately attracted to softwoods with a humidity content insects are wood-destroying of above 15%. The Masonite Factory near Carrick on Shannon in Ireland, where envi- where in Ireland, Carrick on Shannon Factory near The Masonite boards stiff relatively from products, fibre is a wide range of wood There for instance, boards, insulating fibre Hofatex, who make a range of wood Pavatex is leading manufacturer of a wide range of wood fibre insulation of a wide range of wood fibre Pavatex is leading manufacturer used in the RHP case study some of which were products, and board composite wood panel products such as MDF, chipboard, wafer board board wafer chipboard, as MDF, such products panel wood composite and health impacts negative environmental are While there and plywood. problems can cause pollution lignins in timber even the natural of glues, 1991). (Sierra-Alvarez have raised concerns permission and planning opposed ronmentalists by the Irish pollution emission risks, was prosecuted about a range of prod- fibre 2012). Wood in 1997 (EPA Agency Protection Environmental compressed benign, hand, can be environmentally ucts, on the other It is important to distinguish natural resins. releases using water which and those made products friendly wood fibre between environmentally and copper (PCP) and glues. Pentachlorophenol with synthetic additives toxins that have been used in highly dangerous arsenic (CCA) are chrome less with now being replaced (Jagels 1985) but are timber for many years materials. dangerous many building can meet batts. This range of products to floppy insulation and used in that can be rendered boards sarking boards, roof needs from separation and as sheathing laid on floors for acoustic external renovation, on. In lightweight timber frame in timber frame construction and so boards benefit of providing have the additional products construction, wood fibre have introduced Some manufacturers some thermal mass to the build-up. com- or largely are that friendly wood products a range of environmentally of added chemicals. pletely free having previ- a modified starch, from claim to use an ‘ecological glue’, made Its factory initially established in 1951 in ously used polyvinyl acetate (PVA). the Bystrica River in Slovakia. They treat Banska Bystrica is by the side of the is and the fibre process incoming softwood chips using a thermo-mechanical however: do admit to adding paraffin, mixed with water and then dried. They

Renewable and non-renewable materials 18

Natural renewable materials commercially available 19 )

. (continued Examples of natural manufactured insulation and related products available available products and related insulation manufactured of natural Examples Protect Mais standard ® ® ® HolzFlex made of cornstarch with a textile bonding fibre Flexible insulation board HolzFlex Pavatex wood fibreboards Isolair Pavatherm and Pavatherm HB Pavaflat Diffutherm Pavaclay Pavadentro Table 1.2 1.2 Table in Europe of give an idea of the range 2010 is included to available in natural products This list of of date almost This list will be out years. been available in recent that have products However, introduced. are and other new ones disappear as some products immediately exist do products different of how many not aware specifiers are and many architects Breathe hemp flax insulation hemp flax Breathe and hemp Isonat wood fibre HDW Stopfwolle bricks Hanf-Lehm-Steine hemp-clay insulation hemp fibre HDW Faserschuettung blown-in insulation Einblasdaemmung hemp Canafloc hemp insulation Cannabric Stopfwolle hemp insulation insulation Hanfstopfwolle hemp hemp pellets for fillings Hanfdämmschüttung hemp blown-in insulation Hanfeinblasdämmung Canaflex mm) wool insulation Daemwool Schafwoll Dämmatten (30–240 Alchimea wool insulation Insulation Ireland Sheep Wool wool Thermafleece sheep’s Thermafleece hemp Thermo hemp / Thermohanf hemp insulation wool Black Mountain sheep’s Black Mountain natural hemp insulation Isolena Woolin Flachshaus insulation panel DP flax Flachsdämmatten flax insulation mats Steico Flex Steico Therm Steico Roof Steico Floor Steico Zell Gutex fibreboards boards Hofatex wood fibre HolzFlex )

(continued Another company making wood fibre and also hemp boards and insulation hemp boards and also Another company making wood fibre in several products other companies making wood fibre are There available and it is a wide range of natural insulation products are There projects. Pavatex is based in Cham and Fribourg on the Saane River in Pavatex is based in Cham and Fribourg projects. work in 1936 and uses a wet process Switzerland. The company began though a small amount of on natural lignin in the wood for bonding relying Latex for waterproofing their products. bitumen (2%) is added to some of during rain protection to provide products is added to the roofing on illustrated using heat in a process pressed are construction. The fibres used. spruce and fir timber are their website (Pavatex 2012). Softwoods, burning wood from on site and the heat for drying comes is recycled Water waste in a plant on their sites. as Steinmann & Co., with headquartersis Steico, which was founded in 1986 on two sites in Poland, materials near Munich, now producing in Feldkirchen (near Gdansk). They also have Woda Czarnków (north of Poznan) and Czarna a wide range of Steico offers France). a base in Casteljaloux (near Bordeaux, (Steico 2012). timber structural components including engineered products for looking at these companies in detail countries but the reason European In is to question why such an industry has not developed in UK and Ireland. MDF the government has invested heavily in supporting a large Ireland, it factory in Clonmel and the Masonite factory in Carrick on Shannon but friendly low impact has not supported the development of environmentally Similarly other composite and solid wood materials production. wood fibre when they could easily be all imported into the UK and Ireland are products made locally. not possible to describe them all. Table 1.2 of some trade shows a list Pavapor Pavaboard Pavastep Pavatex Pavaself insulation Isofloc blown-in newspaper) (recycled type cellulose insulation FlexCL board FineFloc blown-in newspaper) (recycled Climacell blown-in Insulation with and without borates CI 040 blown-in insulation, fillings, Däemmstatt’s fillings, with and without borates Klimafloc blown-in insulation, insulation (cellulose) AgriCell BW blown-in insulation) blown-in (used for all hollows, also for floor Extruded rye filling or WLS 055 (20 & 50 mm) Schilfrohrleichtbauplatte Reed lightweight panel panel Hiss Reet Platte reed Hiss Reet Granulatplatte cork panel KORK Dämmplatte WLS 040 (40–200 mm) Table 1.2 1.2 Table

Renewable and non-renewable materials 20

Natural renewable materials commercially available 21 Bridport House, Hackney, solid timber panel multi-storey construction solid timber panel multi-storey Bridport House, Hackney, timber composite board. Timber structurally insulated panels are insulated panels are Timber structurally timber composite board. In an attempt to develop solid timber construction without glues an In an attempt to develop solid timber timber studs usually uses treated Conventional timber framing simply Figure 1.4 Figure available but these generally use petrochemical based insulation materials. available but these generally use petrochemical sector has sadly done little to timber frame construction The mainstream names of products; while such a list will be out of date as soon as it is as it is as soon of date be out a list will such while of products; names than products far more are that there give an indication it does produced, realise. most people an attractive alter- beams offer veneer lumber (LVL) Glu-lam and laminated con- of buildings, providing for the structure concrete native to steel and spans can be achieved with Often long addressed. are cerns about glues of smaller sections of using composite joists made light-weight material is the use of cross- further development An interesting softwood timber. and can provide prefabricated that are panels (CLT) laminated solid timber This is structural elements of a building. as well as floors, walls and roofs lower quality timber can be some as a valuable use of timber as by regarded the RHP has made use The Inverness case study in used in smaller sections. used to construct an Solid timber panels have been of solid timber panels. with 41 apartments, Bridport House in Hackney North building eight-storey was built in 8 weeks by Eurban with CLT structure East London. The CLT (TTJ 2012). Austrian Company Stora Enso panels from solid timber free has developed a glue Brettstapel, Austrian company, pro- A small number of Brettstapel panel that is held together with dowels. 2012). completed or planned in the UK (Brettstapel jects are or some of chipboard made for racking resistance with a sheathing board other Solid timber in comparison to other materials, they to other materials, in comparison 3 per m 2 environmental damage in most cases. Unfired earth earth damage in most cases. Unfired environmental renewable materials. While UKTFA (2012) does explain the explain (2012) does While UKTFA materials. renewable without It is not proposed to discuss earth construction in depth here as none of in depth here to discuss earth construction It is not proposed Building lime is also an important part of natural building. Lime can use use Building lime is also an important part of natural building. Lime can as cement, and quarrying and burning can to produce as much energy contribute to carbon emissions much as cement, which is also made that On the other hand it has many beneficial effects limestone. from cement does not have, and lime, once in place in a building, absorbs unless the earth is embodied energy construction methods have a very low can often be excavated on some distance. Subsoil earth transported from for foundations. Earth can also be mixed site as part of normal earth moving blocks etc. (Woolley materials to create with hemp and other plant based it is common to use cement stabilised 2006). In some developing countries by the cement industry that earth as practitioners have been convinced it is not neces- enough. In many cases or robust earth is not strong unfired earth. sary to add cement to unfired book is focused on renewable used earth and this the case study projects construction such as some excellent books on earth are materials. There a UK earth building associa- is also Minke (2000) and Morton (2008). There be useful as a form of thermal mass tion, (EBUK 2012). Earth building can the appearance, as earth walls can be in a building; it can also enhance and can absorb moisture. beautiful. Earth is also hygroscopic Unfired earth is an important material that can be used in low impact con- earth is an important material that Unfired the as once dug up from material, struction. Earth is not a renewable to earth can be returned again! However, it does not grow ground the ground adopt natural natural adopt that timber frame claiming first’ approach, of what it calls a ‘fabric benefits tonnes of CO saves 0.8 dodge issues like thermal mass and the environmental impacts of synthetic impacts of synthetic and the environmental like thermal mass dodge issues in timber support innovation have done little to materials. They insulation timber construction to alternative approach a UK based frame. However, a low energy where by Elements Europe, in Wales has been developed Unnos the Ty local spruce: in box sections from house has been constructed and cellulose recycled far has been rockwool Insulation used so project. natural insulations could be other more Unnos say that newsprint, but Ty 7). details in Chapter used (more can be used in rammed earth walls and cob walls (where it is mixed with a and cob walls (where can be used in rammed earth walls and earth products Unfired earth bricks. small amount of straw) and unfired Lime Low impact materials Earth

Renewable and non-renewable materials 22

Low impact materials 23 , , BRE HIS Press Hemp Lime Construction The Report of the Brundtland Commission, Our Common Future from the atmosphere in a process known as carbonation. As the the As carbonation. known as in a process the atmosphere from 2 Lime has been used for centuries, and old limekilns can be seen in many for centuries, and old limekilns can Lime has been used is outside the scope of this book. Again a detailed discussion of lime mqr.info/news/baa-defeats-uk-government-in-eu-court (viewed 16.2.12) mqr.info/news/baa-defeats-uk-government-in-eu-court Adjudications/2011/5/Black-Mountain-Insulation-Ltd/TF_ADJ_50476.aspx (viewed 10.11.11) 12.1.12) html (viewed 28.2.12) (viewed 23.4.12) (viewed 24.4.12) 1987 University Press Oxford 24.10.11) AGGNet (2012) The Aggregates and Recycling Information Network http://www. AGGNet (2012) The Aggregates Authority http://www.asa.org.uk/ASA-action/ ASA Advertising Standards (viewed 12.2.12) Bamboo (2012) http://www.bambooliving.com/ (viewed Bath University 2012 http://www.bath.ac.uk/mech-eng/sert/embodied/ (viewed 12.1.12) Balehaus (2012) http://www.bath.ac.uk/features/balehaus/ (2008) T. Bevan R. and Woolley One Planet Living. http://www.oneplanetliving.org/index. and WWF, Bioregional Black Mountain Ltd (2011) www.blackmountaininsulation.com/Wool%20Brochure%20 (viewed 24.4.12) (2012) http://www.hemptechnology.co.uk/insulation.htm “Breathe” (2012) http://www.brettstapel.org/Brettstapel/Projects/Projects.html Brettstapel Brundtland (viewed 3.04.12) Corklink (2012) http://www.corklink.com (viewed 16.2.12) http://www.dcat.net/resources/index.php DCAT (viewed Earthfirst https://earthfirst.org.uk/actionreports/content/rossport-round CO lime carbonates, it gains strength, but it still remains breathable and and breathable but it still remains strength, it gains lime carbonates, Lime has natural concrete. cement and in walls, unlike flexible with so, when used properties biocidal preservative and waterproofing it is them. If help to preserve materials it can other natural timber and plasters will and then lime renders wall to have a breathable necessary assist with the breathability. a variety of are there other parts of the world. Today parts of the UK and the job. Lime one for it is important to use the correct limes available and lime to use the correct kept alive because of the need technology has been popular much more conservation but it has also become in historic building for the basis Lime also provides and renovation. in modern new-building formulated and insulating plasters. A specially systems many new render this has been used developed for use with hemp and lime binder has been also been in this book. Other lime mixes have projects in the case study lime has been as the wrong not always successfully, used with hemp though used in some cases. 2002; McAfee 2009) useful guides to building with lime (Holmes are There is still a need for a comprehensive 2008) but there and lime mortars (Yates book on lime in new building construction. References IHS BRE Press : Carmania Books, Santa ITDG , Permanent Publications, Hampshire , Permanent Publications, , WIT Press, 15 July 2000 , WIT Press, Building with Lime , Associated Editions The Hemp Manifesto: 101 Ways That Hemp Can Save Our The Hemp Manifesto: 101 Ways Hemp What the World Needs Now Hemp What the World Limeworks Earth Masonry Design and Construction Guidelines Earth Masonry Design and Construction Meat: A Benign Extravagance Earth construction handbook , Park Street Press, Rochester Press, , Park Street knaufinsulation.co.uk/PDF/MSDS-KI_DP_101_UK_Glass_ECOSE_EN.pdf (viewed knaufinsulation.co.uk/PDF/MSDS-KI_DP_101_UK_Glass_ECOSE_EN.pdf 6.5.10) environmental_statement/ (viewed 11.4.12) Specifiers http://www.fsc-uk.org/?page_id=22 29.2.12) J Ind Med. 1985, 8(3):241–51) building woods.’ Am 27.12.11) (viewed technology.aspx#ixzz1hjJMcRyr default.asp?D_A=20110221 (viewed 15.4.11) Monica, California (viewed 28.2.12) FSC International Center and PEFC, PEFC Germany and SFI: wood requirements AC Council Stewardship first edition, October 2009, Forest World includes final hyphen) (viewed 28.2.12) made of of Building Insulation products ‘Comparative Life Cycle Assessment and Flax’, International Journal of LCA 9 Parts 1 and 2 Paper Wool Stone Wool, 2004 and Biotechnology compounds’, Journal of Chemical Technology lignin related 50, Issue 4, pages 443–455, 1991) Issue Wiley Blackwell Volume Earthwool COSHH Glass Issue Safety Data Sheet KI_DP_101 – UK (en) http://www. – KI_DP_101 Data Sheet Issue Safety Glass COSHH Earthwool 29.3.12) (viewed EBUK http://www.ebuk.uk.com/ (viewed 16.2.12) (2012) http://www.ecobuildnetwork.org/ Ecobuildnet (viewed 12.2.12) (2012) http://ecoplanetbamboo.com/about-us Ecoplanet 30.3.12) (viewed http://www.eiha-conference.org/ EIHA (2012) (viewed 14.11.11) (2012) www.epa.ie/licences/lic_eDMS/090151b2802a3895.pdf EPA Fairlie S. (2010) 28.2.12) http://www.foamglas.co.uk/building/products/ Foamglass (last viewed and Timber Also Architects www.fsc-uk.org/ Council (2012) Stewardship Forest 16.2.12) (viewed GSBN http://sustainablesources.com/mailman/listinfo.cgi/gsbn (viewed Hofatex 2012 http://www.hofatex.eu/en/products/walls/hofatex-therm-dk M. (2002) Holmes S. and Wingate of boat- chemical components natural and introduced of Jagels R. ‘Health hazards Knauf Insulation http://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/sustainability/ecose%C2%AE_ (viewed 28.2.12) Knauf Insulation http://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/earthwool.aspx ads held unlawful’ http://www.marques.org/class46/ (2011) ‘Rockwool fire Marques (2009) McAfee P. McCabe J. (2010) Mcintosh A. http://www.alastairmcintosh.com/articles/2004-ecos-lafarge.htm Minke G. (viewed 28.2.12) Pavatex http://www.pavatex.ch/herstellung.aspx – Comparative analysis between the controlled PEFC (2009) FSC summary report Robinson R. (undated) Rockwool http://www.rockwool.co.uk/homeowner/why+stone+wool-c7-(URL (viewed 24.10.11) Rockwool http://www.rockwool.co.uk/sustainability/sustainability Kamstrup O. and Postlethwaite D.A., Schmidt A., Jensen A., Clausen A.A., R., Lettinga G. ‘The methanogenic toxicity of wastewater lignins and Sierra-Alvarez (viewed 12.4.12) Steico (2012) http://www.steico.com/en (viewed 16.2.12) Strawbale Construction http://strawbale.sustainablesources.com/ (viewed 16.2.12) Strawbale EU (2012) http://www.strawbale-net.eu/ (viewed 16.2.12) The Last Straw http://thelaststraw.org/ (viewed 12.5.12) Thermafleece (2012) (http://www.thermafleece.com/products (viewed 20.4.12) TTJ (2012) http://www.ttjonline.com/story.asp?storycode=68366 (2012) http://uktfa.com/fabric-first/ (viewed 20.4.12) UKTFA Morton T. (2008) Morton T.

Renewable and non-renewable materials 24

Low impact materials 25 , NHBC The use of lime based mortars in new build The use of lime based , Crowood Press 2006 Press , Crowood Natural Building Building Products, Grand Committee Room, Westminster, London, 16 November London, Room, Westminster, Grand Committee Building Products, 2011 28.2.12) (viewed tion/construction_materials/insulation/insultation_limits.html 2008 Foundation 12 December Welteke-Fabricius, Uwe: Speech at the launch of the Alliance for Sustainable for Sustainable Alliance of the the launch at Uwe: Speech Welteke-Fabricius, T. Woolley 12.2.12) (viewed http://www.worldbamboo.net/ Bamboo (2012) World http://www.wrap.org.uk/construc- Programme Action and Resources WRAP Waste A. and Ferguson T. Yates 2. Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme

The UK Labour Government of 2007–2010 provided £6.7 million through the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) to encourage the use of natural renewable materials in social housing construction through the Renewable House Programme (RHP). Twelve projects were funded contributing to the construction of approximately 200 houses. The process by which the programme was set up and administered is discussed in detail in Chapter 3. This programme provided an opportunity to see how natural, renewable materials could be used in mainstream social housing projects. According to a section of the DECC website (accessed in 2010 but since removed) the funding was to build low carbon affordable homes using ‘innovative highly insulating renewable materials’. The scheme was to demonstrate the viability of the materials and act as a spur for the renewable construction materials industry. However, one of the projects did not use renewable insulation materials and others used synthetic insulation materials in substantial elements of the schemes. This apparent breach of the grant conditions was justified in some cases by claims that DECC had not explicitly stated that renewable insulation materials should be used and that the use of timber frame and timber windows was sufficient. The DECC website, however, made it very clear:

‘Only homes … that use a very high proportion of construction materials from renewable sources such as timber frame, natural insulation and timber windows are eligible for funding. (DECC 2010)

The DECC funding only provided a little extra money in most cases, with the majority of finance coming from elsewhere such as housing association grants. However, in the case of the Diss project, the grant appears to have paid for most of the scheme. The list of projects shown in Table 2.1 gives an overview of the programme and each case study is then discussed in more detail. The amount of funding shown for each project was based on

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Table 2.1 RHP case study projects (The grant figures and numbers of houses listed here were supplied by DECC and may differ from those reported in the case studies below)

Developers Location No. of houses/ RHP Insulation materials Page units Grant £ number

United Welsh Housing Assoc Abertridwr, Wales 8 220k sheep’s wool 29 Oaklee Housing Association Carnlough Antrim, NI 12 110k Hemcrete, sheep’s wool and cellulose 35 Cottsway Housing Blackditch Oxford 16 320K Hemcrete and sheep’s wool 40 Network Housing Group Callowlands, Watford 16 320k Hemcrete and synthetic foam 44 Joseph Rowntree Trust Domary Court 6 160K Hemcrete Huntingdon Road York and fibreglass in roof 49 Albyn HA Scotland Inverness 2 75k wood/hemp fibre and solid wood 55 Flagship Housing & CZero Long Meadow Denmark 114 planned 3 million Hemcrete and hemp fibre 59 Lane, Diss, Norfolk only 29 built Lilac Co-operative Leeds 20 420K Modcell strawbale system, no details of other products yet 64 North Herts Homes Letchworth Tomorrows 46(60) 920k Hemcrete and Pavatex wood fibre 68 Garden City Four Housing Group Reed Street South 21 320k Pavatherm wood fibre and stone Shields wool in roof 76 Greensquare & Hab Oakus/ Swindon The Triangle 42 840k Hemcrete and sheep’s wool 80 Kevin McCloud Kingdom HA Scotland Pittenweem Fife 1 35.4k appears not to have used any renewable insulation materials except timber frame and windows 88 Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme figures supplied by DECC and there may have been some variation in the final amounts allocated. Another grant condition on the DECC website was that the homes had to start on site in the 2009/2010 financial year and, as a result, several pro- jects were rushed into, in order to meet the deadline of April 2010. The majority of the other projects, however, proceeded at a more leisurely pace and construction was in progress or only just started in 2012. Information on each project was gathered through a series of email and telephone exchanges with the housing associations or developers, archi- tects and builders. With a few exceptions, everyone contacted was very helpful and prompt in supplying information. The original list of approved projects provided by DECC (including grant figures and numbers of houses) was inaccurate and it took some time to track down all of the project con- tacts, with the help of the Homes and Communities Agency. Initial tele- phone and email information was then supplemented by further queries both by email and during site visits. In every case the builders were very accommodating in arranging site visits, even when they were very busy. Some of the architects were particularly helpful in sending photographs and updates on the progress of projects.*

* There may be some contradictions in information about grant finance and numbers of houses in the following case studies because different information was provided by different 28 organisations.

Abertridwr: Y Llaethdy South Wales: sheep’s wool insulation 29 Association sheep’s wool insulation wool sheep’s technician/designer, Byron Way, were very helpful in providing very helpful in providing were Way, Byron technician/designer, Abertridwr: Y Llaethdy South Wales: Wales: South Y Llaethdy Abertridwr: TypeLocationBuilder/developerMaterialHousing for United Welsh Construction Greenhill InsulationGrants South Wales Y Llaethdy Abertridwr, flats, CSH Level 4 8 two-storey frame, hempcrete Timber wool Sheep’s £200,000 (RHP) The aim was to build Code Level 4 apartments, part of a larger 4 apartments, part of a larger The aim was to build Code Level build the apartments with timber It had originally been planned to have anything to do with the sup- The timber frame suppliers did not in using the construction did not indicate any problems Greenhill This scheme was completed in autumn 2010 for the United Welsh the United Welsh completed in autumn 2010 for This scheme was under way when a grant was already The project Housing Association. materials and DECC RHP to use renewable the from became available sheep’s specification was changed to incorporate so the insulation Construction, and their architec- Greenhill wool. The builder-developer, tural information about the project. conventional houses built using development with a number of other grant went towards insulation. The renewable masonry and fibreglass flats in a courtyard. part of the development, eight two-storey to be changed at the last minute to frame so it was possible for details materials the renewable insulation to justify incorporate renewable normally have used Kingspan grant. The builder said that they would space. in the roof PUR in the walls with fibreglass as they supplied an open frame and ply or installation of the insulation Construction explained Greenhill the builder added the insulation on site. without any real and roof wool in the walls that they substituted sheep’s a build- through sourced wool was change in the detailing. The sheep’s Black was from Encon, and it was suggested that this merchant, er’s no photo- were there Unfortunately, Mountain (BM) in North Wales. being installed wool sheep’s showing graphs of the construction process been had wool product was no firm evidence of which sheep’s and there the insulation was contacted used. The Encon depot that had supplied wool of sheep’s by phone but they initially denied ever having heard said that they had supplied some a few insulation, but when pressed was no demand’. Encon as ‘there years ago but did not stock it anymore who supply insulation materials Insulation Ltd is a specialist merchant wool and they certainly show Black Mountain and Thermafleece sheep’s on their website (Encon Insulation 2012). wool though they suggested it would normally be too expen- sheep’s financial details and they indicated sive. The builder kindly provided wool insulation. Based on an estimation spending £7,602 on the sheep’s Abertridwr Energy data Abertridwr Energy of insulation had been used, this suggested suggested used, this had been of insulation 2 Abertridwr energy data Abertridwr energy The designed airtightness: level 3 44–69% TER reduction: Roof design values: 0.1 Floor: 0.11 to 0.16 0.16 Walls: Table 2.2 Table (Note: figures from Byron Way) Byron from (Note: figures . Comparing this cost with current insulation prices insulation prices current this cost with . Comparing 2 Significant emphasis was placed on the provision of renewable energy energy renewable of on the provision emphasis was placed Significant board- scheme was quite high and cedar of finish on the The standard in November 2010 and was visited on a very cold day The project The wall build-up detail, Figure 2.2,OSB timber sheathing includes (Insulation Price 2012) this does not seem excessive. Price 2012) this (Insulation and photovol- heat pump system air source with an NIBE in this scheme windows were glazed timber Triple roofs. on the south facing taic panels by the £200,000 grant provided of the resources also used. The bulk of the scheme and the Welsh element energy went on the renewable of the renewable that this was allowed as part Government decided grant scheme. frame, timber win- cladding. Clearly the timber ing was used for external materials but as renewable could be regarded dows and cedar cladding of wool was only a small proportion for the sheep’s the amount of grant of information (FOI) to a freedom In response the £200,000 available. with DECC stated that they had agreed Government the Welsh request to achieve funding in order eligible for the that ‘photovoltaic panels were Government 2012). (Welsh a Code Level 4 standard’ floor apartment, which was ground access was available to one occupied tenant seemed very satis- well heated, if not overheated. The extremely the heat- long enough to appreciate fied but had not been in the flat for energy renewable for the required ing costs. The amount of space of the flat. very small area with the equipment seemed high compared metallised breather on outside of frame with a ‘high performance’ board polythene high-density membrane on the outside. An impermeable of the insulation. This is not a detail membrane was used on the inside insulation manufactur- by natural that would normally be recommended as best would be regarded is much debate about what ers but there condensation. On the other with interstitial practice to avoid problems insist assessors can sometimes and energy officers hand building control would this, if installed properly, on impermeable barriers saying that is At the moment there of airtightness. contribute to a good standard performance of such a detail so the little scientific data available on the Most ecological designers risk of interstitial condensation is unknown. that approximately 1000 m 1000 approximately that a cost of £7 per m a cost of

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 30

Abertridwr: Y Llaethdy South Wales: sheep’s wool insulation 31 50 mm treated × 50 mm treated × 38 timber studs @ 600 mm mm centres × 12.7 plasterboard lining mm Gypsum × 9 OSB sheating board mm High performance breather membrane High performance 2 Vapour control layer (500 g), all joints lapped and traped to seal softwood battens forming ventilated air space forming ventilated air softwood battens 19 50 cladding on mm cedar 140 insulation Mountain sheepswool filled with Black 38 @ 600 mm timber studs mm centres × 12.7 mm Gypsum plasterboard lining Polythene mineral fibre cavity barrier Polythene mineral fibre cavity 5in cedar cladding boards mm movement joint × 9 board mm OSB sheating High performance breather membrane 2 Vapour control layer (500 g), all joints lapped and traped to seal 19 on 50 mm cedar cladding softwood battens forming ventilated air space 140 filled with Black Mountain sheepswool insulation ) ) 3 3 25 corner strip mm approx cedar × (22 kg/m 75 5 mm movement joints to cladding boards The Code assessor for the scheme was also the designer, Byron Way. Way. Byron The Code assessor for the scheme was also the designer, (10–60 kg/m would prefer to use breathing materials throughout, though it is normal materials throughout, to use breathing would prefer per- practice to have less permeable material on the inside with greater membrane would work just as the outside. A breather meability towards well as an impermeable one in terms of airtightness. Assembly has carried out by BEM Ltd. (The Welsh SAP calculations were all new housing, including private houses, to be subject to now required External corner Green Guide rating A+ 19 mm Gypsum plank Abertridwr detail drawings provided by Byron Way by Byron Abertridwr detail drawings provided 89 timber frame panel mm Vapour control layer (500Vapour control g) 62 cavity between studs mm 60 mineral wool insulation mm 12.7 mm Gypsum plasterboard lining Separating wall junction Constructed to robust detail E-WT-1 but Constructed to robust detail sound testing. subject to pre-completion Green Guide rating A+ Figure 2.1 Figure Timber frame £41,600 (Melton Jeld Wen Mowbray) FSC Timber windows and doors £54,152 Timber cladding £31.900 PV panels £61,200 K was an ambitious U-value target for sheep’s for sheep’s target ambitious U-value K was an 2 £200,000 Black Mountain wool sheep’s insulation to or walls roof £7,602 Abertridwr organisations Abertridwr finances The figure of 0.16 W/m of 0.16 The figure This project shows that it was feasible to substitute sheep’s wool for a was feasible to substitute sheep’s shows that it This project Abertridwr: 8 units CF83 2AX Caerphilly Y Borth, 13 Beddau Way, Housing Association United Welsh (029) 20858178 Hill Construction Ltd Green Director Darran Watts http://www.green-hill.co.uk/ Sustainable Building Science MCIAT: Way Byron & Code Assessor Technologist Architectural Chartered CF46 6PB 20 Hawthorn Road, Nelson, Caerphilly, www.sustainable-building-science.com Performance Ltd: BEM Building Energy CF83 8F Mid Glamorgan 7 Roundabout Court, Bedwas, Caerphilly, Table 2.4 Table Funding details Grant approx. Table 2.3 Table the Code for Sustainable Homes and this is enforced through the plan- the through is enforced and this Homes Sustainable for the Code ning process). wool, with a wall thickness of 140 mm, but no test results were made were no test results mm, but of 140 a wall thickness wool, with in practice. Black Mountain, been achieved in to see if this had available of 0.4 for quote a U-value Mountain 2010) leaflet, (Black their technical U-values to improve is assumed thickness. Foil backed boarding mm 100 Metropolitan at Cardiff about this. Staff is some debate but there this may indicate carrying out monitoring work and University will be achieved. was how good a standard It is unlikely that the difficulty. without any apparent synthetic material mineral and have been achieved with fibreglass design U-values could have been would that a better insulation standard wool but it is possible claimed for PUR.

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 32

Abertridwr: Y Llaethdy South Wales: sheep’s wool insulation 33 Abertridwr: elevation showing PV cells on roof Abertridwr: Y Laethdy Terrace Figure 2.3 Figure Figure 2.2 Figure Abertridwr: cedar cladding detail Abertridwr: under construction. Reproduced by permission of Green Hill by permission of Green Abertridwr: under construction. Reproduced Figure 2.5 Figure Construction Ltd. Figure 2.4 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 34

Drumalla House, Carnlough, County Antrim: Hemcrete and sheep’s wool 35 mechanical houses 1 wheelchair bungalow), CSH Level 4 bungalow), CSH Level 1 wheelchair Housing Association walls, PV panels, Timber frame, hempcrete systems ventilation heat recovery Antrim: Hemcrete and sheep’s wool and sheep’s Hemcrete Antrim: Drumalla House, Carnlough, House, Drumalla County × Eleven houses were built consisting of: Eleven houses were by meters to be monitored fitted with visible energy The homes were MSM Construction Ltd of Portadown, Northern The builders were 10 3-person, 2-bedroom 2-storey1wheelchair semi-detached bungalow LocationBuilder/developerMaterial Ltd. for Oaklee MSM Construction InsulationGrants County Antrim House, Carnlough, Drumalla wool Sheep’s £110,000 (RHP) Type semi-detached houses, (10 two-storey 11 houses This project was built using timber frame and hempcrete walls, with walls, with timber frame and hempcrete was built using This project Association. Cellulose insu- for Oaklee Housing wool in the roof, sheep’s been had already in certain positions. The scheme lation was also added the RHP. became available from designed and detailed when funding the Department of by in Northern Ireland The grant was administered was expected to achieve Level 4 of Social Development, and the scheme Apple has won a Green The project the Code for Sustainable Homes. 2011 and for Oaklee Housing Association in November award bronze Northern opening by It was officially subsequently. several other awards 2011. Nelson McCausland, on 30 September Assembly Minister, Ireland insulation a conventional changed from The details of the scheme were when the grant became in the walls system to the use of hempcrete on site and the timber frames had started had already available. Work used as permanent were Magnesium silicate boards been ordered. were wool boards Wood but Heraklith shuttering for the hempcrete, a better key for to provide the windows used as shuttering around loft space. Some wool insulation was used in the Sheep’s rendering. it used in part of the scheme where sprayed cellulose insulation was also glazed windows, Triple to place hempcrete. difficult was considered systems photovoltaic panels and mechanical ventilation heat recovery used and an airtightness level of below 3 was achieved. (MVHR) were have in liaison with tenants. Tenants officer own energy the Association’s home user guide, which includes with a comprehensive also been provided Information on the environ- tips on how to conserve water and energy. was included in the handover talks. of the properties mental features had any experience with hemp lime or who had not previously Ireland, trained the builders in the use of other eco-materials. Lime Technology the new system and they decided to do their own casting of the ) 2 ) (5 sets of semis) 2 consideration but so far there is no evidence of any prob- so far there consideration but Carnlough: houses under construction showing permanent shuttering Carnlough organisations Detailing of the roof and at the head of the wall might have been at the head of the wall might have and Detailing of the roof Figure 2.6 Figure is cast hempcrete in place before board hempcrete walls. On the training day, they brought in quite a few of their a few of in quite brought they day, training On the walls. hempcrete to the unfa- a very positive response seemed to be and there operatives hempcrete indicated that The contractors of construction. miliar form managed to find a They difficulty. without too much installed walls were mixing the pan mixer for a horizontal that provided company local hire by hand. was then placed mix The hempcrete and hemp shiv. lime binder instal- cast, had to be cut away for services once Some of the hempcrete, (Figure 2.10). not appear to cause any major problems lation but this did with the loft insulation. reported were No problems given more satisfactory. were results lems. Airtightness 1 × wheelchair bungalow (90–95 m Oaklee Housing Association 37–41 May Street, Belfast, BT1 4DN Oaklee Housing Association 37–41 May Street, Seagoe Industrial Estate, Portadown, Contractor MSM Contracts Ltd, Unit 45a, County Armagh BT63 5QE Lisburn. Knox Clayton Architects, Architect: Coleraine. QS: Michael Magee, Brian Canavan Associates, Engineers: Albert Fry Associates, Belfast. M&E: John Conlon & Paul Hillan – BSD Belfast. CSH: FW Consulting Belfast. NI Department of Social Development (DSD) BT7 2JB Place, Gasworks Business Park, Belfast Lighthouse Building, 1 Cromac Table 2.5 Table Housing Association: 11 houses Carnlough – Oaklee m 10 × 3p2b houses (70–75

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 36

Drumalla House, Carnlough, County Antrim: Hemcrete and sheep’s wool 37 Carnlough: hempcrete before render applied render before Carnlough: hempcrete Carnlough: contractors staff training on using hempcrete Carnlough: contractors staff The cost of scheme was £1,232,000, though a figure of £1.5 million The cost of scheme was £1,232,000, though a figure was referred to in later press releases. The grant received from the RHP from The grant received releases. to in later press was referred was £110,000. Figure 2.8 Figure Figure 2.7 Figure Carnlough: wall detail where opening has been cut for electricity Carnlough: wall detail where Carnlough: wall head detail showing uncertainty on finishing the Carnlough: wall head detail showing Figure 2.10 Figure services Figure 2.9 Figure it meets the roof where hempcrete

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 38

Drumalla House, Carnlough, County Antrim: Hemcrete and sheep’s wool 39 NI Assembly Minister, Nelson McCausland, at the official opening. Nelson McCausland, at the official NI Assembly Minister, Carnlough: finished houses Figure 2.12 Figure www.rorymoore.com Photography, by permission of Rory Moore Reproduced Figure 2.11 Figure windows and doorsets, PV panels windows and doorsets, Low Carbon Buildings Programme), Grant), £88,000 (DECC £320,000 (DECC RHP) × × × × × 2 1- bedroom 2 - person flats 6 2 - bedroom 46 - houses person 3 - bedroom 5 - houses person 1 2 - bedroom 4 - person flats 1 4 - bedroom 6 - houses person Hemcrete and hemp fibre insulation hemp fibre and Hemcrete The scheme consists of a mix of dwelling sizes: The scheme consists of a mix of dwelling The design of the scheme reflects the influence of the Prince of the influence The design of the scheme reflects by the PV The neo-vernacular appearance is somewhat marred The scheme was due for completion early in 2011 but was not finished material and method of construction was The principal renewable different from many other schemes using hemp lime construction. many other from different TypeLocationBuilder/developerMaterial Housing Association E.G. Carter for Cottsway Insulation Oxfordshire Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt, houses, CSH Level 4 ‘affordable’ 16 Grants facing, FSC certified triple glazed timber stone Hempcrete, Black Mountain hemp fibre (Homes and Communities Agency Social Housing £800,000 Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire: Oxfordshire: Harcourt, Stanton Blackditch, This development, by Cottsway Housing Association, of 16 ‘affordable’ of 16 ‘affordable’ by Cottsway Housing Association, This development, to village; it was designed edge of a rural Oxfordshire houses, is on the houses have been Code For Sustainable Homes. The meet Level 4 of the homes. sold as affordable to housing association tenants and not rented The development was largely led by the construction company E.G. led by the The development was largely the Midlands in Gloucester but active throughout (head office Carter, Bristol, were Kingscott, from Kendall and southern England). Architects and basic design work but do involved in obtaining planning permission in the site work, which was not appear to have been much involved of Carter. the responsibility largely in that a neo-vernacular or ‘traditional’ look Poundbury effect) Wales (the in with the adjacent village with a was adopted in an attempt to blend houses and cottages. Stone facing number of historical and vernacular walls. was used with some rendered panels on makes with hempcrete but the use of stone facing the roofs it was formally opened by the 2011. The project when visited in March who is also the local Member of Prime Minister David Cameron, on 21 June 2011. Oxfordshire, Parliament for West for the walls. This was installed by R. Curtis Building & hempcrete Ltd of Swindon, who attended training at Lime Technology. Groundwork designed with a pitches with dormers and loft spaces were Steep roof

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 40

Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire: Hemcrete and hemp fibre insulation 41 Blackditch: walls showing stone facing and PVC rainwater goods. Cottsway Housing organisations The scheme also included FSC certified triple glazed timber windows, glazed timber FSC certified triple also included The scheme HA performance, but Cottsway on energy No data was available Figure 2.13 Figure www.rorymoore.com Photography, by permission of Rory Moore Reproduced Table 2.6 Table 16 houses Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt Cottsway, Cottsway Housing Association OX28 4YG Oxford Cottsway House, Heynes Place, Witney, Agent: Fry Binks Surveyors Contractor/developer: EG Carter Gloucester http://www.egcarter.co.uk/home.html Kendall Kingscott Bristol Architects ITS insulation Stourbridge http://www.itsltd.org warm roof construction. Black Mountain hemp insulation was used in the was used hemp insulation Mountain Black construction. roof warm Ltd. and Services ITS Insulation Techniques installed by roofs, harvesting, storage rainwater underground timber doorsets, FSC certified ventilation and mechanical solar PV installations heat pumps, source ground installed. were monitoring devices consumption Energy recovery. and heat cost over home would normally two-bedroom claims that an average With and power. water usage and the cost of heat £1,000 per year for running they expect to reduce Harcourt, used at Stanton the measures E.G. Carter confirmed The contractors year. £200 per costs to around would not values, but they met the contract target that the airtightness achieved. was details of what standard provide Blackditch: wall detail showing cavity and stone facing Blackditch: wall detail showing cavity and Blackditch: showing PV cells on roof The scheme was funded with a Homes and Communities Agency Agency Communities and a Homes with was funded scheme The the hempcrete used with a cavity between it and The stone facing was Figure 2.14 Figure Social Housing Grant of £800,000 plus £88,000 from the DECC Low the DECC Low from £800,000 plus £88,000 Grant of Social Housing DECC RHP the from and £320,000 (LCBP) Programme Carbon Buildings The Fund). Low Carbon Investment the from to by Cottsway as (referred with 19,216 projects, energy renewable a scheme to promote LCBP was million (DECC 2012). a cost of £91.37 funded at rendered. normal hempcrete Other walls were walls (Photo 2.13). used, and this and acrylic paints were conventional plaster Internally, to some minor drying out problems. may have contributed Figure 2.15 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 42

Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire: Hemcrete and hemp fibre insulation 43 Blackditch: showing use of acrylic paints instead of micro porous porous instead of micro Blackditch: showing use of acrylic paints Prime Minister at official opening. Reproduced by permission of Cottsway opening. Reproduced Prime Minister at official Figure 2.16 Figure breathable paints Figure 2.17 Figure Housing Assocation. sons of the previous winter, winter, sons of the previous × fibreglass £320,000 × × 3 3 - houses bedroom 12 2 - houses bedroom 1house 2 -accessible wheelchair bedroom 16 ‘affordable’ two- and three-storey dwellings: two- and three-storey 16 ‘affordable’ Callowlands, Watford: Hemcrete Watford: Callowlands, The hempcrete installation was subcontracted to Gunite Ltd, based installation was subcontracted to Gunite Ltd, based The hempcrete Houses are claimed to be 44% more energy efficient than the current than the current efficient energy claimed to be 44% more Houses are to planning did the original design up of Watford PCKO Architects construction. Due to was still under At the time of writing, this project TypeLocationBuilder/developer Limited Housing Group Network Construction Group, Hills MaterialInsulation Callowlands, Watford houses, CSH Level 4 two- and three-storey 16 ‘affordable’ Grants PV panels Hempcrete, (EcoTherm), Crownloft Rigid polyisocyanurate sheet material but in fact, the weather during the winter of 2011/12 was very mild and but in fact, the weather during the winter of 2011/12 was very mild and It was visited for placing or drying out the hempcrete. was not a problem in January 2012 on a warm sunny day. but the work was then further subcontracted to in Cambridgeshire, Company who had worked on the Diss and Letchworth the Limecrete Planning permission for this development in the Callowlands suburb of for this development in the Callowlands Planning permission end 2010. The site is located at the was obtained in October Watford of Road, adjacent to a Leavesden Place, a cul-de-sac off Callowland used by the council to provide previously The site was health centre. accommodation. short-term hostel temporary, Limited of Wembley, Group The developer was Network Housing also agents were Miller Surveyors (who Airey London, whose agents are was to be built to Code The scheme for the Letchworth RHP project). with the three- flat roofs, houses have Level 4. All of the two-bedroom of The style monopitched roofs. houses having very shallow, bedroom and some window panels. porches the houses is modern, with timber construction with a timber and metal composite The windows are and a timber inner frame. powder coated metal outer frame building regulations requirements. Photovoltaic panels were installed. Photovoltaic panels were requirements. building regulations on went ahead – when the project then replaced but they were approval, London, who were of Clerkenwell site – by Frank Reynolds Architects (Hills 2012). Hills Construction Group employed by the building contractor did not begin on site until autumn 2011, which various delays, the project would not be cast until the winter of 2011/12. meant that the hempcrete it seemed experienced by some of the other projects Given the problems the les unfortunate not to have learned from

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 44

Callowlands, Watford: Hemcrete 45 Callowlands organisations As the buildings have flat roofs it was decided to use synthetic insula- decided to use it was have flat roofs As the buildings lime at had been used with hemp cladding Timber rain screen the implications of had considered It is not clear if LABC Warranty Callowlands indicated the design drawings for The original architect projects. When visited, about 60% of the hempcrete had been placed placed been had the hempcrete 60% of about visited, When projects. well (Figure 2.18). be progressing to and appeared (PIR) sheet material polyisocyanurate build-up. A rigid roof tion for the was fibreglass Crownloft on site though was evident called EcoTherm panels in also used for wall insulation PIR was Synthetic also mentioned. and other wall The porches of hempcrete. in place the entrance porches and the insurers, have a timber rainscreen, designed to sections were rain- 2012) would not accept a timber Warranty (LABC LABC Warranty detail for was no approved there as they said onto hempcrete screen cladding. behind rainscreen hempcrete the builder suggested Hills difficulty. any apparent Letchworth without hempcrete the fixings passed all the way through that, as the cladding concerned about a potential risk were the insurers to the timber frame, these cladding back into the building from or rain soaking of moisture cladding of rainscreen system ties. The builders said that the proposed on a scheme in used by them had been previously over hempcrete 2012). (Hillingdon Hillingdon in 2011 without any problem the and synthetic PIR insulation panels hempcrete junctions between The issue of would be resolved. and how airtightness at the junctions warranties is discussed in Chapter 4. high coloured panels are Trespa panels for the rain screen. use of Trespa resins, and thermosetting wood fibre laminates made from compression made which is a board with Rockpanel Rockclad, but this was replaced the use of a while demonstrating The project, rockwool. of compressed also used a significant material for the bulk of the walling, renewable level of synthetic products. Callowlands, Network Housing Group – 16 houses Callowlands, Network Housing Group HA9 0NU 8 Fulton Road, Wembley Centre, Olympic Office Network Housing Group, www.networkhg.org.uk managers) Miller Partnership LLP (project Airey Beckenham, Kent BR3 1AN Kelsey House, 77 High Street, www.aireymiller.co.uk Contractors: Hill Partnerships Ltd, The Power House, Gunpowder Mill, Powdermill Essex EN9 1BN Abbey, Lane, Waltham http://www.hillpartnerships.co.uk HA1 3AW 45–51 Lowlands Road, Harrow-on-the-Hill PCKO Architects Design Architects: working for Hill the Contractors, (Replaced by Frank Reynolds Architects EC1R 0DP) 14 Clerkenwell Green Endeavour Company, Hemp Lime placement, Gunite Group/Limecrete House,Compass Point, St Ives, Cambridge PE27 5JL www.gunite.co.uk Table 2.7 Table Callowlands: hempcrete when scaffolding starts to come down. when scaffolding Callowlands: hempcrete Callowlands: three-storey block under construction Callowlands: three-storey Figure 2.19 Figure Miller Partnership. MSc, The Airey by permission of Luke Brooker Reproduced Figure 2.18 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 46

Callowlands, Watford: Hemcrete 47 Callowlands: synthetic foam insulation was used for the porch and Callowlands: synthetic foam insulation was used for the porch Figure 2.20 Figure by permission of Luke Brooker Reproduced instead of hempcrete. window surrounds Miller Partnership. MSc, The Airey Callowlands: different coloured bands on the hempcrete show variation hempcrete bands on the coloured Callowlands: different Callowlands: LABC warranty sign Figure 2.21 Figure Miller MSc, The Airey by permission of Luke Brooker in drying out. Reproduced Partnership. Figure 2.22 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 48

Domary Court, York: Hemcrete 49 synthetic bungalows), CSH Level 4 bungalows), Domary Court, York: Hemcrete York: Court, Domary The scheme consists of a terrace of four conventional two-storey of four conventional two-storey The scheme consists of a terrace lime construction, to trial hemp been interested JRHT had previously Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable The scheme was designed to meet insula- materials for the roof instead of using renewable Surprisingly, Type single-storey 2 shared 6 houses (4 two-storey, LocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulationGrants Housing Trust Joseph Rowntree Domary Court, York timber frames walls, hemcrete Tradical Fibreglass £160,000 This small development of six houses was one of the earliest to be of six houses was one of This small development (JRHT) Housing Trust The Joseph Rowntree the RHP. completed under Yorkshire. and throughout York houses in and around owns over 2,000 chocolate business, foundations, founded by the One of the charitable Trust Foundation and Charitable to the Rowntree the JRHT is linked small schemes as it owns 2012). It is well placed to develop (Rowntree In the small projects. and has experience of developing land in the area been occupied by a care a small corner site had case of this project and demolished The existing buildings were home, close to a river. the site after some negotiations with the planning boundaries altered, area. conservation to a river and nature due to its proximity authority, end of the site bungalows at either single-storey houses and two shared sized built with generous were for special needs tenants. The bungalows as a converted in the future and flexibility so that the loft can be rooms or could be reconfigured also rooms flat for a special needs helper and modest and Designs are bungalows split into two dwellings. the shared amount of external with a reasonable simple but fit well into the context parking. space and off-street to use these materials. Timber and the grant gave them an opportunity Hemcrete on the inside, with Tradical frames with a permanent shuttering form of construc- the same externally, for the walls and a Baumit render studies. tion as in several of the other case gas boilers. High high efficiency homes and includes PV panels and designed by used. The houses were Rationel windows were standard Doncaster that is now and built by a builder from local, BSB Architects Mansell Group. part of the much larger was used in the lofts. JRHT seems to have focused mainly tion, glass fibre in the walls and so it is possible that the on the use of hempcrete loft insulation was chosen by the builder. The Homes and Communities loft insulation was chosen by the builder. which funds social housing schemes, indicated that applicants Agency, did not seem to be materials but there to use renewable expected were Given approved. any checks on the specifications when schemes were (InterNACHI 2012) It is generally accepted that, in certain situations, fibreglass insulation has situations, fibreglass It is generally accepted that, in certain particles that come into contact the potential to cause physical harm. Small and cause itchiness, rashes and irritation. When with skin can lodge in pores nosebleeds, and other respiratory inhaled, particles can cause coughing, capable of becoming deeply fine airborne particles are ailments. Very believed by many to cause cancer and other lodged in the lungs and are The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration serious afflictions. fibreglass to be serious enough that it requires (OSHA) considers this threat insulation to carry a cancer warning label. The architects, Brown Smith and Baker for the Domary Court scheme, Brown The architects, went quite Despite their lack of experience, the building process Given the potential health benefits of living in houses built of natural in houses built of benefits of living potential health Given the It is disappointing that JRHT did not adopt a more holistic approach holistic approach not adopt a more It is disappointing that JRHT did willing to pioneer and experiment with this scheme as they have been using hemp and lime at While with a range of innovative projects. natural materials in a move towards Domary Court this does not indicate have been constructed to a JRHT schemes Other recent other projects. as part their sustainability policy (JRHT 2010). of standard good energy December had been constructed by Avenue The houses at Temple by JRHT to reduce claimed These are 2010, one for sale and one for rent. based panels with petrochemical heating costs by 40%, one using SIP blocks with a lightweight concrete synthetic insulation, the other using thin mortar bed. and the designers explained that before, had not specified hempcrete in terms of construction Lime Technology on advice from they relied performance. None of the other profes- energy details and predicted had used this construction sionals involved, or the building contractor, but the contractor sent some of their employees for method before training at Lime Technology. evident was that the hemp lime walls smoothly and the only problem to dry out. Some minor staining was evident when the slow were the DECC’s intentions for a high proportion of insulation materials to be materials of insulation proportion a high for intentions the DECC’s had selected asked why they were the JRHT sources, renewable from wool was an or sheep’s that the use of hemp replied and they fibreglass on the part of HCA/DECC. requirement’ ‘aspirational about then use a material inconsistent to it seems strangely materials of insulation carries the highest risk health concerns. Loft are which there the loft through because occupants can enter particulate contamination the throughout the insulation, distributing the fibres a hatch and disturb from and suffer hypersensitive to fibreglass are house. Some people was make of fibreglass The particular it is present. itching where severe on the packaging seen on site (Figure 2.23). was no label not clear as there occupants of Domary is no evidence that any of the there However, fibreglass. from with ill effects any problems Court have experienced bodies in the USA to be a cancer by some is considered While fibreglass in Europe. controversial risk, this remains

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 50

Domary Court, York: Hemcrete 51 JHRT were told that there was no money for monitoring the project for monitoring the project was no money told that there were JHRT work by the of data will be available from A considerable amount the houses, airtightness, thermal LMU carried out a range of tests on bungalows was left empty for a period Plot 6, one of the single-storey project was visited in March 2011 and the final application of the of the final application the 2011 and in March visited was project until they were walls was delayed on some outside render external be seen, in what could From dry enough. that the walls were satisfied to be drying out seemed limited and the the staining was the visit, the despite of the other schemes, than in some problematic much less almost were 2011, the houses In March weather of 2011. bad winter November about to move in. In occupants were complete and the very happy, JRHT that the occupants were by 2011 it was reported with no complaints. with Leeds Metropolitan a long-standing relationship but, as they have funding for building perfor- able to secure they were University (LMU), and LMU Strategy Board, the Technology from mance evaluation on 29 Nov 2011. of this work in York on the initial findings reported will The results has been done in two stages. LMU, and their monitoring and so it Board Strategy Technology be published by either LMU or the and in any case, their work was not was not possible to access this data on the general conclusions it is possible to report complete. However, at the meeting in York. presented and MVHR assessment etc. imaging, heat flux meters, ventilation No exemplary air- disappointing, they said. were Airtightness results so LMU had to compare had been set in the design tightness target reg- well within building All the houses were with normal targets. results air leakage. This was evidence of unnecessary but there ulations targets that would to as normal problems due to what LMU referred was largely to the not related and were housing projects be found on many different to service particularly due were walls. Leakage problems hempcrete void and a lack of continuity cold roof penetrations in the ceiling into the had been and the walls. There between the floor slab membrane so that, for instance, the ceilings had sequencing issues by the builders to be and the builders are built. JRHT been installed after partitions were examination of the project, forensic congratulated on allowing such a of construction was standard this. The which allows others to learn from LMU that per- by the team from of a good quality but it was suggested and not paid to the hempcrete haps too much attention had been enough to other details. a and this made it possible for LMU to conduct a ‘coheating test’. This a house is fully new methodology developed at Leeds, where relatively and constantly heated for a period of 3–4 weeks, when air temperatures This allows the fabric to warm up and the house to be low. outside are to external thermal shock. in terms of humidity and response stressed reli- Data can be collected over an extended period and be much more able than short-term checks, it is claimed. K based on tests that they have had K based on tests 2 Domary Court, York, organisations Domary Court, York, The co-heating test confirmed problems with the ceilings in the cold with The co-heating test confirmed problems Coheating is a false situation, as the house is not occupied, although although occupied, is not as the house a false situation, is Coheating of have yielded a wealth test will Court the co-heating At Domary Table 2.8 Table 6 houses Housing Trust: Joseph Rowntree YO30 6WP End, York The Homestead, 40 Water JRHT, 77a Beverley Road, Kingston-upon-Hull HU3 1XR Smith and Baker Architects, Browne Doncaster DN4 8QG Mansell Construction, Loversall Court, Tickhill Road, Balby, House, Mechanical Engineer: BES Consulting Engineers Ltd, Block 3, St Cuthbert’s DL5 6DN. Business Park, Newton Aycliffe Aycliffe YO60 7ES York East Ings Farm, Bulmer, Consulting Engineer, DACWood Thorpe Manager: Frank Cawkwell, Faithful & Gould, 3200 Century Way, Project Park, Leeds LS15 8ZB. carried out previously, but the LMU results indicated a U-value in the indicated a U-value but the LMU results carried out previously, than other in-situ as it is worse of 0.4. This is a surprising result region carried out by Plymouth based on independent work test figures the hempcrete that are (Bevan 2008) Possible explanations University. despite too dense. Unfortunately, had been over tamped and was thus LMU had not taken any test cubes, visiting the site during construction, walls. made of the density of the so no checks were to be effec- roof construction. insulation appeared While the fibreglass were LMU suggested that there it had been placed correctly, tive where continu- was not sufficient there at the edge of the loft where problems walls. It is the head of the hempcrete ity between the loft insulation and details had been recommended not known whether Lime Technology’s the policy of using a cold roof. followed but this also calls into question detail and easier to effective construction can be much more roof Warm edges. at roof it does have the advantage of eliminating variables of human behaviour. behaviour. of human of eliminating variables the advantage it does have housing projects out on other being carried tests are Other co-heating It is not such as a week. shorter periods, but usually for much in the UK a month. be left empty for houses that will easy to find Relative LMU or JRHT in the future. be available from data, which should be did not appear to they said that there but humidity was monitored out of the hempcrete to the drying related any significant difference performance of the team claimed that the thermal walls. Also the LMU could be a as the walls dried out. This to improve walls did not seem to draw any equipment used, and it is hard of the methods and reflection LMU claimed that their heat flux one project. this firm conclusions from was significantly that the insulation value of the walls sensors indicated Technology Lime design U-value. Apparently worse than the claimed W/m of 0.19 had stated a U-value

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 52

Domary Court, York: Hemcrete 53 Domary Court: bungalow Domary Court: fibreglass insulation used in roof Domary Court: fibreglass Figure 2.24 Figure Figure 2.23 Figure Domary Court: terrace Figure 2.25 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 54

Inverness: CLT and fibre insulation 55 wide-frontage houses of 78 m2 each of 78 houses wide-frontage Association glass wool each. The architect, John Gilbert, worked with John Gilbert, worked each. The architect, 2 Inverness: CLT and fibre insulation and fibre Inverness: CLT affordable houses for the Expo. affordable Martinsons is based in Northern Sweden, not far from the Arctic the Arctic Martinsons is based in Northern Sweden, not far from the use of solid timber and visual point of view, environmental an From The Expo was developed by the Highland Housing Alliance in The Expo was developed by the wide-front- semi-detached consists of two two-bedroom The project Morrison Construction on a design-and-build basis and thus the archi- Morrison Construction on a design-and-build of materials selected. of the specification tects did not have full control decided to use a Group) Try part of the Galliford Morrisons (who are for the houses based on cross- form of solid timber construction system a Swedish company panels came from The CLT laminated timber (CLT). called Martinsons (Martinsons 2012). Martinsons specialise in a range is a multi- including glu-lam beams. CLT of engineered timber products The laid crosswise. in which the various layers are board wooden layered and can be used to construct multi-storey structurally strong panels are buildings. Circle, region. the Västerbotten from timber and use slow growth nearby Martinsons have FSC chain of custody certification and from sustainably managed by local landowners. are that forests on seems very attractive, and in these houses, a solid timber finish is left Two projects were funded in Scotland through the RHP, one in Inverness, the RHP, funded in Scotland through were projects Two Scottish in Inverness was part of the The project the other in Fife. Housing Expo (Scotland 2011), which consisted of 52 demonstration sale and a built for kinds. These houses were houses of many different time of writing, ranging in still on the market at the few of them were part funded study project, £230,000 to £350,000. This case price from sold were was ‘Plot 4.1’ and the two houses built here under the RHP, is a Scottish equity-sharing scheme under a scheme called ‘LIFT’, which to the Scottish an FOI request to help first-time buyers. Following received the Inverness project Government, it was confirmed that cost of 2012). Total the RHP (Scottish Government £40,000 in grant from was £257,737. the two-house project Inverness house plot was Council. The renewable and the Highland developed by Albyn Association, who developed a number of Housing other m age houses of 78 LocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulationGrants Albyn Housing Morrison Construction, Inverness, Fife timber Cross-laminated Frametherm Crown fibre, Natural wood £40,000 (RHP) Type semi-detached 2 two-bedroom ARB (2007) resulting in a resulting 2 K. Despite several enquiries, the builder did not provide builder did not provide K. Despite several enquiries, the 2 The roof cassettes were fitted with Crown Frametherm glass wool, Frametherm glass fitted with Crown cassettes were The roof for heating based performance/running cost annual energy Predicted Synthetic glues are considered to be relatively stable, once in place, be relatively to considered Synthetic glues are very little insulation, not thermal mass but Solid wood panels provide In 1992, formaldehyde was formally listed by the Air Resources Board as a Toxic Air Contaminant in Air Contaminant as a Toxic Board In 1992, formaldehyde was formally listed by the Air Resources total daily average formaldehyde Health risks from California with no safe level of exposure. cases 86 to 231 excess cancer estimated to range from are all sources in California from exposures per million for children. 23 to 63 excess cancer cases per million for adults, and from ppm below 0.10 Health Organization: World ppm below 0.10 E1 Standard: European that warning labels on any product hazard Communication Standard: OSHA Hazard ppm or greater may emit 0.10 ppm Institute Certification: below 0.05 Environmental GreenGuard® ppm State of California: below 0.05 predicted annual running cost for heating of £73 per dwelling. annual running cost for heating of predicted details of the fibre insulation that had been used. As this had been out- insulation that had been details of the fibre confirm the not able to they were of the architects, side the control insulation it was a wood fibre The consensus seemed to be that product. to be a hemp insulation product. but it appeared material. and certainly not a renewable a Knauf product mm thick, 400 for the the DECC requirement As with Callowlands and Domary Court, not followed. The Scottish was majority of insulation to be renewable in Chapter 3. External clad- Government explanation of this is discussed sheet and an STO rendered ding consisted of corrugated aluminium cladding board. 54 kWh/m usage) on the SAP rating (heat only energy Formaldehyde is red listed by some organisation in the USA as not safe at any level. listed by some organisation Formaldehyde is red the world (Ecotimber 2012): set around are standards Various the inside, but the architects were concerned about the nature of the nature about the concerned were the architects but the inside, can be iso-cyanate, products timber Glues used in composite glues used. were this case Martinsons but in (polyurethane) or PUR phenol, PVA that any told said they were who by the architects questioned that sets standard was below a European in the glue formaldehyde visit to on a subsequent However, levels for formaldehyde. acceptable glues. now using melamine they said that they are Martinsons in Sweden which called Brettstapel, to use a form of CLT had wanted The architects 2011), but glues, and nails by using pegs (Brettstapel avoids the use of had been chosen instead. CLT are emissions as they a low health risk from claim and manufacturers a of more Synthetic glues can be building structure. bound up within the cyanide can be when hydrogen in case of fire or risk during manufacture as safe in terms of fire is particularly Solid wood, however, released. then burning. wood chars rather efficiency energy or reasonable to meet building regulations sufficient insulation was used externally, mm of natural wood fibre so 200 targets, giving a claimed U-value of fixed to the solid wood panels (Figure 2.28) 0.13 W/m

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 56

Inverness: CLT and fibre insulation 57 Inverness Expo: house south side. Reproduced by permission of John by permission of John Inverness Expo: house south side. Reproduced Inverness Expo: house north side. Reproduced by permission of John Inverness Expo: house north side. Reproduced Inverness Expo organisations Expo Inverness Albyn Housing Society Inverness: 2 houses Society Inverness: Albyn Housing IV2 6GA House is at Inverness, IV3 8DN Crescent, 68 MacLennan Society, Albyn Housing & Development Housing Expo c/o Planning Alliance, Scotland’s Highland Housing IV3 5NX Road Inverness Glenurquhart The Highland Council, IV1 1UA Construction, 37 Harbour Road, Inverness Contractor: Morrison Business Centre, 201 The White Studios, Templeton John Gilbert Architects, Glasgow G40 1DA Inverness IV2 6AA Castle Heather, Fairways Business centre, QS: WSD Scotland Ltd, Etive House, Beechwood Fairhurst and Partners, Ashley Guy, Structural Engineer: Park, Inverness IV2 3BW Table 2.9 2.9 Table Figure 2.26 Figure Gilbert, John Gilbert Architects. Figure 2.27 Figure Gilbert, John Gilbert Architects. Inverness Expo: interior (Gilbert). Reproduced by permission of John Inverness Expo: interior (Gilbert). Reproduced Inverness Expo: insulation and CLT detail. Reproduced by permission detail. Reproduced Inverness Expo: insulation and CLT Figure 2.29 Figure Gilbert, John Gilbert Architects. Figure 2.28 Figure of John Gilbert, John Gilbert Architects.

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 58

Long Meadow, Denmark Lane, Diss: Hemcrete and Breathe hemp flax insulation 59 CSH Level 4 CSH Level in Diss, Norfolk . These issues are discussed in more detail in discussed in more . These issues are 2 Long Meadow, Denmark Lane, Diss: Denmark Meadow, Long The affordable houses were offered for sale at £109,000 for the for offered houses were The affordable When visited in August 2011, most of the affordable houses were occu- houses were the affordable When visited in August 2011, most of using cast walls, hempcrete constructed of standard The houses were to Flagship Housing Association, £1,650,000 was spent on According Hemcrete and Breathe hemp flax insulation hemp flax Breathe and Hemcrete Chapter 3. This is said houses and £95,000 for the two-bedrooms. three-bedroom to be a 30% discount on normal market prices (normally 20% discounts The development at Long Meadow, Denmark Lane, in Diss, Norfolk, was Denmark Lane, in Diss, Norfolk, at Long Meadow, The development with 114 houses, schemes in the DECC RHP, of all the to be the largest The Birmingham- nearly half of the funding for the programme. receiving demon- a one-off for had been responsible based developers, CZero, Park (Renewable House 2011). In stration house at the BRE Innovation actually built 29 houses were only the event, due to a range of problems, in further phases. future may be built in the in Phase 1, though more built for Flagship of flats, were Fifteen of the units, including a block The rest based in Norwich. social landlord Housing, a local registered ear- were houses, though 12 of the 114 to be sold as affordable were site greenfield This was a large marked to be sold at open market prices. town, which was described as the at the western edge of a small rural exception site is where ‘rural exception’ site in the UK. A rural largest the end of a settlement but land at housing is permitted on greenfield outside the normal planning boundary. seemed enthusiastic about residents pied or about to be occupied. The small building defects. The a number of the scheme despite reporting until the autumn of 2011. not occupied housing association units were frame to Level 4 of the Code for permanent shuttering on a timber was quilt insulation (Breathe) Sustainable Homes. Hemp insulation lofts. installed in the (cold roof) the 15 housing association units, with the whole development so far, made at a in a presentation to CZero, costing £2,547,835, according in Milton meeting in the Homes and Communities Agency offices in the said that build costs were Keynes. Robert Pearson of CZero region of £1,116 per m TypeLocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulationGrants Flagship Housing Association CZero, phase 29 houses), 114 houses (1st Denmark Lane, Long Meadow, frames cast walls, timber Hemcrete insulation quilt (Breathe) Hemp £3,000,000 plaster. While there was a little evidence of damp was a little evidence of damp While there plaster. Diss organisations K, with 0.10 claimed for the hemp insulation in the lofts. Air source Air source for the hemp insulation in the lofts. K, with 0.10 claimed 2 The design insulation U-value for the hempcrete walls was 0.18 walls U-value for the hempcrete The design insulation As with some of the other hempcrete schemes, much of the work much of the work schemes, As with some of the other hempcrete Table 2.10 Table Norfolk: 104 houses proposed Diss Flagship Housing and CZero http://www.longmeadowdiss.co.uk/ House, 14 Bennetts Hill, Limited, The Penthouse, Grosvenor C-Zero Linford Birmingham B2 5RS www.czero.com Flagship Housing Association, Keswick Hall, Keswick, Norwich NR4 6TJ flagship-housing.co.uk 9RU Ipswich IP3 Europark, Ransomes Barnes Construction, 6 Bermuda Way, Birmingham B3 1QS Square, 50–54 St Paul’s Khoury Architects, Architect: London N1 9AB Way, QS: EC Harris, ECHQ, 34 York are offered) (Norfolk RCC 2011). The developers faced high costs with high costs faced developers The RCC 2011). (Norfolk offered) are and had difficulties development for the 106 agreement their Section they homes; the affordable to finance lenders unwilling with mortgage While the Ecology the development. this seriously hampered said that mainstream supportive, Bank were Society and Co-operative Building of the rest development difficulties, Because of these not. lenders were may lenders been delayed. While the mainstream of the houses has materials used for queries about the construction and have raised some with the market and financial to do more were the houses, the problems with the discounted sale system. arrangements associated W/m heat pumps were provided with MVHR ventilation. An airtightness of with MVHR ventilation. provided heat pumps were contract but it is not clear under the 50 Pa was required 2.0–2.5 /(h.m2) @ Barnes were achieved. The building contractors whether this was hemp lime. Company cast the and the Limecrete Construction of Ipswich, winter weather in 2010/11 and this was done in the worst of the cold with the walls drying out. appears to have led to serious problems in using heaters and dehumidifi- Considerable expense was involved by Baumit plasters preferred ers to try to dry out the walls; the internal were who supply the hemp and lime materials, Lime Technology, changed to a Thistle with paint problems reported CZero staining on the walls externally, has led the developer to some of the internal walls. This peeling off have some doubts about the use of on site-cast hemp lime and they of the materials for the rest considering alternative methods and were with problems any moisture was no evidence of development. There be moni- to are and the houses insulation in the roofs, the Breathe Non-food Crops arranged by the National under a programme tored Centre.

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 60

Long Meadow, Denmark Lane, Diss: Hemcrete and Breathe hemp flax insulation 61 Diss: completed houses Diss: typical rear elevation Diss: typical rear Figure 2.30 Figure Figure 2.31 Figure Diss: three-story housing association apartments Diss: three-story Diss: brick arches painted onto the render with some signs of deterioration painted onto the render Diss: brick arches Figure 2.32 Figure Figure 2.33 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 62

Long Meadow, Denmark Lane, Diss: Hemcrete and Breathe hemp flax insulation 63 Diss: long view showing the future development area Diss: long view showing the future Figure 2.34 Figure common space 2 (LILAC 2012) 4-bedroom houses, 200 m 200 houses, 4-bedroom LILAC, Leeds: Modcell strawbale Leeds: Modcell LILAC, An MHOS will ensure that the cost of the homes remains permanently that the cost of the homes remains An MHOS will ensure of the housing market. the extremes follow and doesn’t affordable The project is to build a co-housing scheme for a community of is to build a co-housing scheme The project (LILAC Community Affordable LILAC stands for Low Impact Living for houses affordable to create A further aim of the scheme was Type 20 units 1, 2, 3 and Co-housing scheme, LocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulationGrants Community Low Impact Living Affordable Leeds, Yorkshire West Victoria Park area, Modcell construction system Strawbale £420,00 (RHP) The cost of the project is divided into equity shares owned by members is divided into equity shares The cost of the project is and financed by the payments that members make each month, which equivalent to 35% of their net household income. After some deduc- tions, members can take their equity with them on leaving. A financial Paul assessment and payment of a deposit is needed to join the society. and one of the founders of the at Leeds University, Chatterton, a lecturer planning to publish a book giving an account of the project, is group, its construction. both as a social experiment, and to record This project is perhaps the most unusual of all the case studies but also most unusual of all the case studies is perhaps the This project time of writing. on site and was unfinished at the the last one to get (Figure now proceeding is Work of the group 2.36 shows members on site). people, initiated the who intend to live in the project group and the in the 1980s and the Co-housing was developed in Denmark proposal. individual of people build the world. A group around idea has spread numerous are There a number of common facilities. houses but share the idea is gaining popularity for co-housing schemes in the UK and ‘senior’ housing (Co-housing 2012). Apart from cooperative society. not-for-profit 2012). It is a member-led, will include a common house building individual houses, the scheme a kitchen and dining area, facilities such as with a range of shared and workshop. guest room room, laundry, multipurpose house in the normal to buy a afford people who might not be able to model in the achieve this they have adopted an affordability To way. society (MHOS), which is an equity form of a mutual home ownership based leaseholder scheme.

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 64

LILAC, Leeds: Modcell strawbale 65 previous previous gardens, gardens, house 2 × × × × 6 1- bedrooms 6 2 - bedrooms 6 3 - bedrooms 2 4 - bedrooms plus a 200 m common The site is in the Victoria Park area of Bramley, west Leeds, Yorkshire, Yorkshire, Leeds, west of Bramley, area Park the Victoria site is in The and appointed as the architect were White Design Associates flats, of one- and two-bedroom The development of 20 units is a mix While the straw is a different material from other schemes in the material from While the straw is a different on an old school site. The design of the scheme mixes private dwellings mixes private design of the scheme school site. The on an old communal zone, a car-free based around facilities and shared storage. Limited and ample cycle food for growing spaces, areas green it needed site, it was a brownfield As was provided. on-site parking lengthy were there could start and building of work before quite a lot to obtain planning local authority to sell the site and delays getting the permission. decided to adopt the Modcell the group because landscape architect The LILAC group system for the buildings. strawbale construction that the scheme had materials and to ensure wanted to use renewable CoHo are managers as possible. The project as low a carbon footprint for (RSL) that was responsible social landlord The registered Ltd in York. was a sort of consortium DECC, Synergy, grant from accessing the RHP in Housing (not to be confused with Synergy area of RSLs in the Leeds appears to have been minimal. Dorset). Their role and houses. Most will have private gardens, and four-bedroom three- homes will be self-contained with the upper flats will have balconies. The and living space: kitchens, bathrooms The Modcell construction method is quite different from the other forms the from quite different The Modcell construction method is as it is the programme, house of construction used in the renewable only panels The Modcell system uses prefabricated one using straw. made the panels. inside a timber frame with straw compressed from in a local farm that has straw usually made in ‘flying factories’ These are the site. The straw is scratch-coat available, as near as possible to craned into and then the panels are with a lime-based render rendered Modcell design position. The LILAC scheme follows a fairly standard number of Modcell houses, an increasing are While there with flat roofs. buildings, this will be the first social housing scheme schools and office (Modcell 2012). Modcell panels have also been made with hempcrete. programme, at the time of writing, work had only just started on site. Ground However, works, carried out by the local authority – the remediation owners – had been completed. As LILAC was keen to keep costs down, Modcell strawbale ‘flying factory’ as will be used on the LILAC project. Modcell strawbale ‘flying factory’ as will be used on the LILAC project. LILAC Leeds organisations Table 2.11 Table LEEDS LILAC Co-operative Mount, Leeds LS6 4LG http://www.lilac.coop/ LILAC. 62 Greenwood Bristol, BS2 9LB House, 21 Sevier Street, White Design, The Proving http://white-design.com/ Bristol BS2 9LB House, 21 Sevier Street, Modcell, The Proving Business Park, House, Northminster CoHo Ltd, 2 Holly Tree managers: Project YO26 6QU Harwood Road, York due the affordable nature of the project, Modcell was an interesting interesting was an Modcell the project, of nature the affordable due possible to it was not stage of the project due to the early choice, but the RHP was grant from Clearly the £420,00 cost information. obtain any of the Modcell affordability the to ensure contribution an important technology. Figure 2.35 Figure Reproduced by permission of ModCell. Reproduced

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 66

LILAC, Leeds: Modcell strawbale 67 LILAC: future residents and builders gather as work begins in April 2012. residents LILAC: future Figure 2.36 Figure by permission of Lilac MHOS Ltd. Reproduced houses ) ×× ×× wood fibre and Hemcrete and fibre wood ××× ( rent : 4 3 - bedroom flats, 5 2 - bedroom flats, 5 1- bedroom flats Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth: Letchworth: City, Garden Tomorrow’s As the site already had planning permission for housing, and the for housing, and the had planning permission As the site already in Letchworth Way Talbot City site is off Garden The Tomorrow’s 60 homes, which comprise: are Overall there TypeLocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulation Homes North Hertfordshire Grants Letchworth City, Garden Tomorrow’s houses 3-bedroom 60 houses, mixed 1, 2 and (Pavatex) wood fibre Hempcrete, Pavaflex insulation £920,000 Social Social marketproperties sale : 5 2 - bedroom flats, 9 3 - bedroom HomeBuyownership shared : 26 2 - flats, bedroom 6 1- flats bedroom The scheme was due for completion in January 2012, with houses to The scheme was due for completion in January 2012, with houses be a number of delays in were handed over in February 2012. There even though it seemed well under way during a completing the project moved in, in February visit to the site in July 2011, but the first residents 2012 (NHH 2012). This project began life as a result of an architectural competition to of an architectural a result began life as This project the city living and to celebrate to garden design a new approach the was to reflect Cottages Exhibition’. The aim centenary of the ‘Cheap to also to respond origins of the Letchworth experiment but progressive 2012). Letchworth was founded ecological issues of today (Letchworth issues that have many of the and addressed by Ebenezer Howard, competition architectural 1902). The become topical today (Howard with another Stride Treglown in 2007 and was won by architects was run Architects. prize going to Higgs Young main (CTA) Cole Thompson Anders were for the project architects permission, they have gone on to who obtained the initial planning to incorporate the Stride asked design most of the houses. They were designs into the scheme allocating them and Higgs Young Treglown became the executive architects CTA and two plots respectively. three the houses designed by the other and managed the construction of two architects. was 50 miles north of London. The project Hertfordshire, City, Garden in conjunction with Homes (NHH) developed by North Hertfordshire development wing of NHH. They Rowan Homes, which is the private Foundation. the Letchworth Heritage lease the site from

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 68 Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth: wood fibre and Hemcrete The Letchworth scheme is of particular interest as two different technologies were used to construct the houses and flats but with identical designs. This opened the possibility of comparing the perfor- mance of similar dwellings to see whether there is any significant differ- ence between the two technologies. This would have been an ideal project for monitoring funded by the government but instead Diss and Swindon were chosen, as discussed in Chapter 3. The buildings consist of timber frame structures of two, three and four storeys. Many of the units were built using hempcrete from Lime Technology and the rest were built using Pavatex wood fibre materi- als from Natural Building Technologies. The build-up of the Pavatex buildings consists of a wood fibre system called ‘Diffutherm’ which is rendered externally using a similar Baumit render to that used on hempcrete walls. Pavatherm Plus rigid wood fibreboards externally are clad with timber cladding. The scheme uses both vertical and horizon- tal timber cladding (Pavatex 2011). Pavaflex wood fibre insulation batts were used in the build-up. The rendered finish and timber clad- ding appearance is similar for both the hempcrete houses and the wood fibre buildings. Warm roof designs were used with 340 mm of Pavaflex insulation between the rafters. Sedum roofs were used to the second floor roofs and a (cheaper) single ply membrane to the third floor roofs. They used 3,200 m2 of Pavatherm Plus and Diffutherm and 500 m3 of Pavaflex. A total value of £300,000 of Pavatex products were used. Constructing the houses with hempcrete went very well and was rela- tively problem free. However, the details had to be changed to suit the design and this meant that local authority building control (LABC) accredited details were not accepted and new approvals had to be sought from the LABC (LABC 2012). By comparison, the contractors took a little time to master the Diffutherm and Pavatherm construction in order to achieve the weather and airtightness required, due to the number of ancillary products that had to be used. These include Compriband tape and Wemico base rails for the render (Wemico 2012):

TP600 Compriband 600 is a soft and flexible open cell polyure- thane foam tape impregnated with an acrylic based UV stabilised resin. The resin is water repellent and contains a fire retardant. (Tremco 2012)

Other components were also required, to provide fixing points and to meet the rigorous standards of the Pavatex system. It is likely that the contractors were unfamiliar with this method of building but they were able to complete the work successfully. A minor fire was reported during construction which resulted in some smouldering of the wood fibre but no major damage was caused.

69 Letchworth: work in Progress on site Letchworth: work in Progress Letchworth Organisations While there are three different design concepts (including the two the (including concepts design different three are there While Figure 2.37 Figure Table 2.12 Table Houses City Letchworth: 60 Garden Tomorrows http://www.nhh.org.uk/ Homes Letchworth North Hertfordshire http://www.sdc.co.uk/ SDC Contractors Bedford managers) Partnership LLP (project Miller Airey 1AN Beckenham, Kent BR3 Street, Kelsey House, 77 High www.aireymiller.co.uk Hampton Hill, Avenue, Cole Thompson Anders, 52B, St James’s Architect: Middlesex TW12 1HN Clifton, Bristol House, The Promenade, Promenade Architects, Stride Treglown BS8 3NE Place, London NW1 6ER 54 Boston Architects, Higgs Young small competition-winning designs) used at Letchworth, the renewable renewable Letchworth, the designs) used at small competition-winning designs into the different incorporated seem to have been materials caused some small detailing issues though much difficulty without too delays.

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 70 Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth: wood fibre and Hemcrete

Figure 2.38 Letchworth: detail of wood fibre construction

Figure 2.39 Letchworth: Pavatex Wood fibre construction of three-storey units

71 Letchworth: the Limecrete Company mixing hempcrete on site. on site. Company mixing hempcrete Letchworth: the Limecrete Letchworth: manual placing of hempcrete on site Letchworth: manual placing of hempcrete Figure 2.41 Figure Figure 2.40 Figure Company Ltd. by permission of The Limecrete Reproduced

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 72 Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth: wood fibre and Hemcrete

Figure 2.42 Letchworth: detail of roof construction with hempcrete. Reproduced by permission of Anthony Nuttall, Architects.

Figure 2.43 Letchworth: hempcrete construction in progress. Reproduced by permission of Anthony Nuttall, Architects.

73 Letchworth: hempcrete being cast with reusable plastic shuttering. being cast with reusable Letchworth: hempcrete Letchworth: competition-winning house designed by Stride Treglown Letchworth: competition-winning house designed by Stride Treglown Figure 2.45 Figure Ltd. by permission of Rob Delius, Stride Treglown under construction. Reproduced Figure 2.44 Figure Company Ltd. by permission of The Limecrete Reproduced

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 74 Tomorrow’s Garden City, Letchworth: wood fibre and Hemcrete

Figure 2.46 Letchworth: after completion.

75 (The Construction Index 2011) apartments), CSH Level 6 apartments), CSH Level and stone wool and stone significantly reduce its carbon footprint but also that of also that of its carbon footprint but significantly reduce per cent. This means the homes will, over their lifetime, not Reed Street, South Shields: wood fibre fibre wood South Shields: Street, Reed The Reed Street homes will be constructed using renewable homes will be constructed using renewable The Reed Street impact in both the materials, to have a minimal environmental Under the current definition of zero carbon, the Reed Street Reed Street carbon, the definition of zero Under the current by around standards development will exceed compliance definition amended 2016 once the recently However, 25 per cent. unregulated the inclusion of which removes comes into force, to be exceeded by around carbon, compliance is expected 75 also contribute to off- their own carbon emissions, but only offset little to and will require setting the emissions of existing homes allow Four Housing It will not only no utility bills for its residents. to Group five of these houses built its existing housing stock, since every Part L House 2010 enough carbon to make a standard will offset Carbon. Zero The development consists of nine three-bedroom houses and twelve houses three-bedroom The development consists of nine TypeLocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulationGrants Four Housing Group 12 two-bedroom 21 houses (9 three-bedroom, South Shields Reed Street, fibre wood Pavaflex, Pavatherm Plus/Diffutherm Stone wool £320,000 Due to constantly changing government subsidies and definitions, it is Due to constantly changing government subsidies and definitions, it on unlikely that these claims will mean very much, due to the reliance publicity material about the pro- in their Interestingly energy. renewable do not mention the main construction materials for the Try ject Galliford stating instead: scheme, wood fibre, This is a development by Four Housing Group in partnership with in partnership by Four Housing Group This is a development the scheme reports, 21 homes. In press Council to create South Tyneside Negative Community Carbon Street to as the ‘Reed has been referred exceed Level 6 of the Code for Village’ and the intention was to of the RHP Code 4 the requirements Sustainable Homes, going beyond of 93% at achieved a score The scheme design was said to have target. 90%). a minimum of Code Level 6 (Code Level 6 requires Try: Galliford to the builders, apartments, According two-bedroom

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 76

Reed Street, South Shields: wood fibre and stone wool 77 (Construction Index 2011) (Construction Pavatherm Plus or Diffutherm with Pavatherm Plus or Diffutherm 2 Reed Street organisations Reed Street of Pavaflex (value of NBT products around £200,000). around of Pavaflex (value of NBT products 3 construction and supply chain processes, such as cedar shingles shingles as cedar such processes, chain and supply construction insulation. paper and recycled Also, 500 mm of a stone wool product was used in the roofs (cold roof). (cold roof). was used in the roofs mm of a stone wool product Also, 500 It is claimed that the 85 kW ‘peak’ photovoltaic arrays of solar panels kW ‘peak’ photovoltaic the 85 It is claimed that 2011 with comple- began in autumn project on the Reed Street Work Table 2.13 Table South Shields: 12 apartments and 9 houses Reed Street, Rivers House, Abbeywoods Business Park, Pity Me, Three Four Housing Group, County Durham DH1 5TG http://www.4hg.co.uk/ Sunderland, SR1 1QX The Place, Athenaeum Street, Fitz Architects, QS: Employers Agent – RNJ Consultants, Newcastle Daten Park, Building, North Innovation House, Partnerships, Try Try Galliford 6UT WA3 Warrington Birchwood, Consultants: NaREC, CK21, Ian Larnach Associates Shields, South Templetown, Eco Timber frame Systems Ltd, North East Foundry, NE33 5SE and Wear Tyne Here again is a project that did not use renewable insulation products products insulation that did not use renewable again is a project Here mate- insulation £320,000 to use renewable despite receiving throughout, (Figure 2.50). used on the roofs rials. Though cedar shingles have been of the cedar is unknown. The source The principal construction method of the scheme is timber frame scheme is timber method of the construction The principal with Further paper. not recycled and products wood fibre Pavatex rainwater harvesting, interac- planned included features environmental and water usage, and monitor energy and to record tive smart metering community system in each home. A small recovery a mechanical heat the all biomass boiler is intended to provide with a heating plant-room needs for all of the homes. heating and hot water for all of the generating enough clean electricity will be capable of to the which will be exported back a surplus, homes and produce The per year. a hoped-for income of £1100 National Grid, generating by govern- may have been affected energy viability of the renewable and grants for solar energy. tariffs ment changes to policy on feed-in house grant was available to Additional funding on top of the renewable (UKTI 2012). investment energy support the extensive renewable but it has been delayed to September tion planned for early summer 2012 mm Pavaflex construction used 220 2012 (Four 2012). The timber frame wood mm Pavatherm Plus or Diffutherm between external wall studs, 80 white Baumit lime over the studs with a wall finish of either boards fibre mm Pavaflex in between timber timber cladding; 250 or larch render m Eco-joist floor cassettes; 2000 700 m Reed Street: general view Reed Street: Reed Street: view Reed Street: Figure 2.47 2.47 Figure Figure 2.48 Figure

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 78

Reed Street, South Shields: wood fibre and stone wool 79 Reed Street: detail of Pavatex and brick plinth. Reproduced by detail of Pavatex and brick plinth. Reproduced Reed Street: Reed Street: cedar shingle roof. Reproduced by permission of Clinton Reproduced cedar shingle roof. Reed Street: Figure 2.50 Figure Mysleyko, Fitz Architects. Figure 2.49 Figure permission of Clinton Mysleyko, Fitz Architects. Grand million and hemp insulation and hemp Kevin McCloud (HAB OAKUS), GreenSquare and Westlea HA and Westlea OAKUS), GreenSquare Kevin McCloud (HAB 4×1-bedroom apartments 7×4 -bedroom houses 2×2-bedroom apartments. 16×2-bedroom houses 13×3-bedroom houses The Triangle, Swindon: Hemcrete Hemcrete Swindon: The Triangle, , said that he wanted to demonstrate that it was possible to , said that he wanted to demonstrate The Triangle is located off Northern Road, Swindon, a former caravan Northern Road, Swindon, a former caravan is located off The Triangle was given planning permission by Swindon Borough The project TypeLocationBuilder/ developer Material Swindon Triangle, 42 housing units InsulationGrants walls Hemcrete Timber frame, cast Tradical hemp insulation Black Mountain £840,000 (RHP) This project consists of 42 housing units on a triangular backland site housing units on a triangular backland consists of 42 This project by the DECC RHP. of Swindon that was partly funded area suburban in a between a private development It was carried out by a partnership OAKUS) and a Swindon- set up by Kevin McCloud (HAB organisation HA). and Westlea (GreenSquare based housing association group called programme a UK television McCloud, who presents Designs quality sustainable housing with good affordable build higher standard succeeded in he has largely is little doubt that modern design. There this series of in projects this aim, as this is one of the better-designed in two television has been well documented case studies. The project 4 in the UK just before shown on UK Channel that were programmes focused mainly on The programme Christmas 2011. (Channel 4 2012) the a housing developer, aims, mistakes and frustrations as McCloud’s and experiences of the occupants, design of the scheme and the hopes materials and hemp. of renewable but did include a little about the use and comprises: and plant nursery in Swindon, storage area a mixed tenure It was intended to sell some of the houses to create with the UK housing problems creating scheme, but with the recession to people on the housing list or who rented market, all the houses were other houses in Swindon. The development cost £4.2 moved from in total, with an RHP grant of £840,000. Council in October 2009, and work commenced at the beginning of May

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 80

The Triangle, Swindon: Hemcrete and hemp insulation 81 methods, The scheme was intended to demonstrate a significant number of sus- significant number to demonstrate a was intended The scheme Glenn Howells and landscape architects, Designed by architects frame with permanent shuttering The construction consisted of timber hemp insulation (sup- insulated with Black Mountain The lofts were part of a passive ventilation sys- The houses have a ‘thermal chimney’, An innovative estate intranet system called ‘Hab Shimmy’ consists of a 2010 and was due for completion in May 2011. When visited at the end at the When visited 2011. in May completion due for and was 2010 to be The scheme began complete. was far from 2011 it of March in July 2011. occupied cars (one car per space used for reducing policies including tainable food by the space for growing and shared on cycling house), emphasis a through a community would be created It was hoped that residents. people moved of meetings before and a series selection process careful and had to interviewed Potential occupants were into the development. aims of the project. in the environmental show an interest Award won a Housing Design the scheme has already Studio Engleback, main- is a large Dixon, the contractor, Willmott more. and is likely to win itself as a leader in sustainability. promoted company that has stream was a major chal- the project when interviewed, said The contractor, a tight timetable, innovative construction lenge coping with site and low budget. difficult standard walls using Lime Technology’s Hemcrete and cast Tradical for the walls, with a the scheme was used throughout details. Hemcrete which were pastel colours, finish with self-coloured Baumit rendered vernacular. meant to fit in with the local rendered the scheme was con- Insulation of Colchester) and thus plied by Warren as much as possible, unlike materials sistent in terms of using renewable quite a few of the other projects. feature architectural strong to be a tem, devised by the architects rising warm air is When the houses get hot in the summer, (Figure 2.52). the windows, large cowl. In addition to the roof to be expelled through air without in fresh system to allow louvered design included a secure and ventilation a mechanical heat recovery opening windows. However, pump with heat is by an air-source system was also included. Heating radiators upstairs. Tenants floor and under floor heating on the ground unac- that electricity bills were spoken to in a second visit complained the well-insulated hempcrete happy with ceptably high. While they were they felt the MVHR and nice and warm, walls and said the houses were too expensive, and electricity should not have underfloor heating were been used for these. They also said that using cork tiles on the floor was the impact of the underfloor heating. insulating the floors and reducing that would be PV panels on the roofs They had been told that there the electricity costs but no solar panels had been fitted. would offset resi- floor; it is intended to provide on the ground wall-mounted screen and water use, and also lets them dents with information about energy was meant know when the next bus to Swindon is due! (Hab 2012). There not clear whether this is yet functioning scheme but it’s to be a car share 05m Central green Kitchen gardens Private rear garden Front garden/curtilage parking

NORTHERN ROAD

33

1

21 1 2

3

1 1

3

2 4

2 Layout of the Triangle in Swindon (based on drawing from Glenn Howells Architects) in Swindon (based on drawing from Layout of the Triangle

14 Figure 2.51 Figure

The Triangle, Swindon: Hemcrete and hemp insulation 83 gutters (Kelly 2011) Design of the thermal chimney (based on drawings from Glenn Howells Glenn Howells drawings from Design of the thermal chimney (based on There are some minor caveats. On talking with residents, it is clear it some minor caveats. On talking with residents, are There And systems effectively. to operate the green that some find it hard The one car per house- is not up and running yet. the intranet really only time will tell whether is also still a work in progress; hold regime fly from free the triangle around the community can keep the area as car concealers; the rather strident parking. And the gabions are green. the precious black top seems about to strangle Problems with casting the hempcrete were reported, as the work was reported, were with casting the hempcrete Problems and downpipes (instead of plastic). The scheme avoids the cheapness and downpipes (instead of plastic). The scheme avoids the cheapness of some of the other case studies. with serious problems were and there carried out during the winter, cold weather early in 2011. Plastering and drying out during very severe delayed by this and also by the walls failing to dry out. were rendering 2011. No Some external staining on the walls was evident in March has there insulation. In this project the roof with reported were problems with holistic commitment to sustainability, and more been a stronger taken to design and care insulation materials used throughout renewable The architectural quality of the scheme is a result of good design, larger good design, larger of result quality of the scheme is a The architectural of galvanised steel windows and doors and the use high standard Figure 2.52 Figure Architects) to car club cars could be seen parked on the access road Two effectively. the scheme during a second visit. Swindon: south-facing Terrace Swindon Triangle organisations Swindon Triangle Figure 2.53 Figure low energy solutions for heating and ventilation. These measures were were measures These and ventilation. for heating solutions low energy ticking the than simply as concept rather as part of the design adopted still to be their success is assessment though achieve a Code boxes to evaluated. Table 2.14 Table units Northern Road Swindon – Hab Oakus: 42 housing GreenSquare Hunston Road, Mulberry House Marketing, Mulberry House, Hab: Kevin McCloud, PO20 1NP Sussex West Chichester, Housing, Barbury House, Oakus and Westlea incorporating group GreenSquare SN5 7HB Swindon Westlea, Stonehill Green, 5JS SG17 Bedforshire Ltd, Hitchin Road Shefford Wilmott Dixon Housing http://www.glennhowells.co.uk/content/home/ Glenn Howells Architects agent: DBK Group Employer’s Engineers: Curtins Consulting M&E Engineers: MaxFordham Studio Engleback Landscape architects:

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 84

The Triangle, Swindon: Hemcrete and hemp insulation 85 Swindon: window shutter detail closed Swindon: window detail showing open louvres Figure 2.54 Figure Figure 2.55 Figure Swindon: bike shed. Reproduced by permission of Glenn Howells by permission of Glenn Howells Swindon: bike shed. Reproduced Swindon: view of completed houses showing attention to landscape Figure 2.56 Figure Architects. Figure 2.57 Figure by permission of Glenn Howells Architects. and detail. Reproduced

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 86

The Triangle, Swindon: Hemcrete and hemp insulation 87 Swindon: model of development. Reproduced by permission of Glenn by permission of Glenn Swindon: model of development. Reproduced Figure 2.58 Figure Howells Architects. . 2 passivhaus K are claimed for claimed K are 2 materials and products. certification Developed by Kingdom Housing Association in Scotland, the project in Scotland, the project Developed by Kingdom Housing Association On the other hand it is an interesting project and claims to have and project On the other hand it is an interesting In order to achieve passiv haus certification it has used a timber frame to achieve passiv haus certification In order and factories in Inverurie and Cumbernauld, Scotframe have offices W/m U-values of 0.09 low wall and roof Extremely this closed timber frame panel system, comprising 140 mm timber studs this closed timber frame panel system, comprising 140 (OSB) and factory filled sheathed both sides with oriented strand board Kingdom HA say foam insulation. In their brochure, with polyurethane wind and water tight within one that the timber frame kit was erected, in a film on process It was possible to see the erection working day. (Scotframe 2012). YouTube was labelled ‘The Kingdom House – A House for the Future’. The dwell- – A House for the Future’. was labelled ‘The Kingdom House on the northern side of family home ing is a five-person two-storey at 6 Station Court in a small East Fife village, Pittenweem, a picturesque m of 104 floor area development. It has a gross mixed tenure This has been the most difficult case study to record as, apart from tim- as, apart from case study to record most difficult This has been the amount of timber timber windows and a tiny ber frame construction, and certainly no materials did not use renewable cladding, this project insulation amount of renewable attempt was made to use a substantial Thus it appears that it did not com- by the RHP. materials as was required ply with the letter of the RHP. of the other better than many standard efficiency achieved an energy haus’ standard as it aimed at the ‘passiv in the programme projects discuss in terms of compari- to rather than Code 4. It is a useful project it goes in the completely opposite son with the other case studies as trialling instead ‘modern methods to the intention of the RHP, direction dependent on that were of construction’ and passiv haus approaches based synthetic petrochemical Pittenweem: no renewable renewable no Pittenweem: materials insulation TypeLocationBuilder/developerMaterialInsulationGrants Kingdom Housing Association house, family two-storey 1 five-person Pittenweem system Timber frame, Supawall foam insulation Polyurethane £35,420 system called the Supawall system made by a company called Scotframe system called the Supawall system (Scotframe 2012). be making the Supawall system under licence. Supawall appears to at a company called Maple Timber Frame. in Lancashire based in Preston

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 88

Pittenweem: no renewable insulation materials 89 K with no 2 orientation double the , which is 2 @ 50 Pa. A substantial range of renewable energy and mechani- energy Pa. A substantial range of renewable @ 50 1 − In their brochure, Kingdom Housing Association justify the use of the In their brochure, The Kingdom House brochure refers to the ‘Renewable Construction to the ‘Renewable Construction refers The Kingdom House brochure not made available by the were Details of the full cost of construction A thickness of 140 mm of PUR insulation will not achieve the required the required not achieve will insulation mm of PUR 140 of A thickness silicone and self-cleaning surface is a thin The nanotechnology design and the water repellent The house has an attractive modern Passive windows, NTech Nordan Other elements of Kingdom House are construction costs of some of the other houses in these case studies. tenants against fuel poverty as a way of protecting passiv haus approach to tackle fuel (Kingdom 2010), but does not discuss whether it is realistic con- double those of standard poverty using solutions with costs that are is struction. It could be suggested that such a high level of investment cal equipment was also installed along with a full MVHR system. cal equipment was also installed along Grant and ‘Cares’ in addition to its Housing Association Programme’ Scheme) which subsidised Energy Funding (Community and Renewable equipment. energy the renewable a grant of £35,420 House received Housing Association but the Kingdom to an materials. The Scottish Government, in response for renewable stated that this was ‘only 15% of the cost of the house’ FOI request, which would suggest that the Kingdom house cost £236,130. (Scottish Government 2012). This is over £2,300 per m low U-values that were the target of this project, so a further 160 mm of so a further 160 project, of this the target low U-values that were called fixed to the panels and mechanically insulation was glued external sys- render This insulated insulation system’. S external wall ‘JUB Jubizol keeps the it is claimed, called Nanosil which, a substance tem contains and mildew on the of algae the build-up by preventing facade clean of ultraviolet to the effects claimed to be resistant surface and is also though Jub (EPS), material is expanded polystyrene light. The insulating with mineral fibre. also have a system the from siloxane based different system and is very render waterproof It is claimed used on the other RHP projects. systems lime based render of modern atmospheric factors. to the effects to have a high resistance but permeability on the Jub literature is no mention of vapour There paints are in the same way that silicate is breathable they do say that it products Nanosil can be found in other (Innovate UK 2012). breathable as a water and it is marketed properties, because of its antimicrobial as to its origins but to get much detail additive. It was difficult repellant Patents manufacturing sources. India and USA seem to be the main industries. and aerospace appear to be held with the US military had not deterio- system of the insulated render self-cleaning properties 2012 (Figure 2.59rated when photographed in January and 2.60). The test. site is near the sea, so it will be a good W/m of 0.8 filled with an installed U-value triple glazed, argon trickle ventilation. A small projecting bay at first floor level has some bay trickle ventilation. A small projecting southern house provides timber cladding. The design of the was designed to be below The air permeability for all the habitable rooms. 0.6 ach (SFHA 2012) telephone that the The house contains a wide range of sustainability features some of sustainability features The house contains a wide range of which would not have been eligible for DECC funding, but in the be funded from content for these to these cases we were The programme. housing investment Scottish Government’s Kingdom Housing Association Scottish Government is satisfied that to the total cost, on appro- spent the DECC funding contribution construction. priate elements of the overall house Last year when it was opened, the Scottish Passive House Centre house rented the development as the first affordable recognised Passivhaus status. in Britain to reach It is interesting to note that in Pittenweem, to achieve low energy low energy to achieve note that in Pittenweem, to It is interesting rather than the synthetic insulations had been used, When asked why by asked to explain the process When the Scottish Government was the from passiv haus certification received The house had apparently required at an early experimental stage, but passivhaus projects have projects but passivhaus stage, experimental an early at required 20 years. in Germany for been built of mm of 300 an overall thickness to use it was necessary targets, as same thickness much the so the walls are insulation material, synthetic solutions. wood fibre and the hempcrete the housing association and by the grant, materials required renewable of confuse. Perhaps the aims and conditions seemed initially architects Scottish the had got lost in transmission through the DECC scheme material in the pol- They thought that the polyol Government channels. crop oil, which was a renewable rapeseed had come from yurethane oil rapeseed from is possible to make polyol for PUR based material. It as part of interviewed some years ago, of polyols, but a manufacturer of quality could not said that the consistency project, another research practice. oil and so it is not used in normal with rapeseed be assured also confirmed on the of Supawall Brian Woodley polyol used in Supawall was synthetic. to be spent materials was given for a grant for renewable which approval answer somewhat obscure insulation, the following on petrochemical was provided. what these ‘appropriate did not state The Scottish Government reply then stated that ‘the to a further question they In reply elements’ were. materials and sustainability house contains a wide range of renewable these consist of. But again they did not clarify what features’. Details of the Pittenweem (SPHC 2012). Scottish Passive House centre available on the SPHC website in 2011 and the certification were project to the Scottish was discussed with them on the telephone. According Federation of Housing Associations: was no sign of the Kingdom House on 2012 there by January However, the SPHC website.

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 90

Pittenweem: no renewable insulation materials 91 per annum 2 K 2 K K 2 2 K 2 K K 2 2 Pittenweem: north facing Pittenweem organisations Predicted energy data provided by Kingdom Housing Association based Kingdom Housing Association by data provided energy Predicted Pittenweem Kingdom Housing Association: one house Pittenweem Kingdom Housing Association: Fife Pentland Court, Glenrothes, Centre, Kingdom Housing Association Ltd, Saltire KY6 2DA www.kingdomhousing.org.uk http://www.oliverandrobb.co.uk/ Oliver & Robb Architect Surveyors: Hardies Engineers: Scott Bennett Main contractor: Campion Homes http://www.campionhomes.com/ Scotframe http://www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/ PR3 0SZ Lane, St Michaels, Preston Park, Tarnacre Hall Business Supawall Ltd, Tarnacre 2FL Coventry CV1 Square, JUB Systems UK Ltd, 4 Copthall House, Station http://www.jubrenders.co.uk/ Wall 0.09 w/m Wall Roof (flat) 0.07 w/m Primary Energy Demand 85kW Demand Primary Energy ≤ 0.6h-1 Air Change (≥ 75%) and Heat Recovery Mechanical Ventilation Efficient 14 kWh/m per annum £91 per annum Estimated Fuel Costs −0.1 tonnes pa Carbon Dioxide Emissions U-values Summary of claimed Roof (pitched) 0.13 w/m Ground Floor 0.12 w/m Ground Windows (installed) 0.8 w/m Figure 2.59 Figure Door 1.0 w/m 2.16 Table Space heat demand: 14kWh/m Space heat Table 2.15 Table energy on using renewable ) BRE Press 2008 BRE Press , Faber and Faber edition 1946 Hemp Lime Construction Pittenweem: south facing Garden Cities of Tomorrow 1902 Cities of Tomorrow Garden mountaininsulation.com/ black articles/suppliers (viewed 7.5.12) http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/funding/funding_ops/innovation/ historic/buildings_prog/buildings_prog.aspx 16.1.12) 123-black_mountain,23-building (viewed 2.3.12) (viewed 31.1.12 http://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/index.jsp?articleid=23928 2.3.12) Figure 2.60 Figure ARB (December 2007) http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/compwood/factsheet.pdf T. Bevan R. and Woolley Data pdf www. Insulation Technical Black Mountain (2010) Sheep Wool (viewed 23.2.12) (2012) http://www.brettstapel.org/Brettstapel/Home.html Brettstapel Channel 4 (2012) http://www.channel4.com/programmes/kevins-grand-design/ (viewed 8.2.12) Co-housing (2012) http://www.cohousing.org.uk/ 2006–2011 of the Low Carbon Buildings programme DECC (2012) Final report (viewed Ecotimber http://www.ecotimber.com/guide/indoor-air-quality.html Encon Insulation www.encon.co.uk/products/results/taxonomy:112-sheeps_wool, 10.5.12) Four (2012) http://www.4hg.co.uk/Extended_Content.aspx?pg=197(viewed (viewed 5.5.12) Hab (2012) http://www.haboakus.co.uk/shimmy.htm answer to social housing development Hillingdon: Hemp house pioneers green (viewed http://www.hillsgroup.co.uk/Construction.aspx Hills Construction Group E. Howard References

Case Studies: twelve projects in the Renewable House Programme 92

Pittenweem: no renewable insulation materials 93 viewed 18.1.12) ( blogs/800584/maximized Alternatives http://www.nachi.org/ and Hazards History, Insulation: Fibreglass (viewed fiberglass-insulation-history-hazards-alternatives.htm#ixzz1sOWOZkil 20.12.11) 21.12.11) 8624083.article (viewed (viewed scotframe.co.uk/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.asp?lID=585&sID… now deleted) October 2010, but 2.3.12) folkrcc.org.uk/wiki/index.php/Affordable_Rural_Housing view_item/item-first-residents-move-into-tomorrows-garden-city-homes/ (viewed 15.2.12) (viewed 13.9.11) (viewed asp (viewed 16.1.12) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qT_XcXR5daA 16.1.12) fifes-kingdom-house-wins-national-award/menu-id-24.html 30-08-2011/galliford-try-partnerships-wins-uks-biggest-carbon-negative-social- housing-scheme (viewed 30.8.11) (viewed 2.3.12) to FOI Enquiry. in response Unit received Innovate UK (2012) https://connect.innovateuk.org/web/built-nanotech/articles/-/ UK (2012) Innovate 22.2.12) (viewed Price http://www.insulationprice.co.uk/ Insulation Inc. Certified Home Inspectors, Association of (2012) International InterNACHI Review 2009/2010 JRHT (2010) Annual Kelly (2011) http://www.architectural-review.com/buildings/pursuit-of-happiness/ www. 6 Station Court, Pittenweem, Overview, House Project Kingdom: Kingdom 14.2.12) (viewed http://www.labc.uk.com/ Building Control LABC Local Authority (viewed 14.2.12) www.labcwarranty.co.uk/ LABC Warranty (17.2.12) Foundation www.lgchf.com City Heritage Letchworth Garden (viewed Community http://www.lilac.coop Living Affordable LILAC Low Impact (viewed 16.2.12) Martinsons (2012) http://www.martinsons.se/home (viewed 2.3.12) Modcell http://www.modcell.com/ Guide http://www.nor- Housing Affordable Norfolk Rural Community Council: Rural NHH (2012) http://www.nhh.org.uk/module/page-239/item_id-144/item_action- Pavatex http://www.natural-building.co.uk/pavatex_diffutherm_timber_frame.htm (viewed 16.9.11) RHP (2011) Renewable House http://www.renewable-house.co.uk/ (viewed 2.3.12) www.jrf.org.uk Foundation and charitable Trust Rowntree Scotframe Supawall System http://www.scotframe.co.uk/web/site/SF_ContactSearch. http://www.sfha.co.uk/hst/archive/ SFHA Scottish Federation of Housing Associations Bill Gillespie, FoI/11/01666 (12.1.12) Scottish Government 2012 Letter from (viewed 11.12.11) Scotland (2011) http://www.scotlandshousingexpo.com (viewed 7.5.12) http://www.sphc.co.uk/ Scottish Passiv House Centre The Construction Index http://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/press/view/ 2.3.12) (viewed http://www.tremco-illbruck.co.uk/products/00816_index.html Tremco & Investment http://www.ukti.gov.uk/uktihome/item/142420.html UK Trade Government Construction the Welsh Government, Letter dated 19.1.12 from Welsh (viewed 2.3.12) http://www.wemico.com/products/base-profile.html Wemico 3. The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement!

The Renewable House Programme (RHP) was established by the UK Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) to promote the use of renewable materials in social housing. DECC says that the programme was announced on 15 July 2009 (DECC 2010). Somehow £6 million plus was found at a time when government budgets were being squeezed, and this had to be spent quickly within the 2009/2010 financial year. This was a one- off initiative and did not appear to be part of any wider political policy or ministerial announcement, by the ill-fated Gordon Brown Labour Government, but it did get a mention in a sustainable construction policy document. This funding disappeared as quickly as it appeared and with the advent of a new Government set up by the Conservative Liberal alliance the section of DECC that was responsible for it was disbanded and the policy emphasis shifted to biofuels. Official interest in renewable construction materials had first appeared through the Department for Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). DEFRA had funded the establishment of the National Non-food Crops Centre (NNFCC) in York in 2003. (NNFCC 2012) While this organisation has been largely focused on bio fuels, bio-chemicals and bio-plastics, it also had an interest in crop based construction materials. Through DEFRA support, the NNFCC commissioned Rachel Bevan Architects to write a report on hemp lime con- struction, which was published in book form by BRE Press as ‘Hemp Lime Construction’ (Bevan and Woolley 2008). It also supported a number of meetings of a technical working group on renewable materials. This ‘Renewable Building Group’ had about 12 meetings over 3–4 years and this then led to the establishment of the Alliance for Sustainable Building Products in 2011 (ASBP 2012). A couple of earlier studies on renewable materials had been carried out by Impetus Consulting (Impetus 2002) and the Construction Industry Research and Information Association CIRIA (CIRIA 2004). These reports had very little impact on public policy and not until the UK Government

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Monitoring and evaluation 95 and not zero! 2 (Zero Carbon Hub 2010) (Zero emissions per m 2 David Adams divides his time between Head of External Affairs for Knauf Head of External Affairs David Adams divides his time between Hub. Carbon of the Zero Insulation (UK) Ltd and as a Director There are various programmes which appear to be linked to this initiative: which appear various programmes are There been focused on the establishment Much UK government attention has Over several years there has been no evidence of any interest or support has been no evidence of any interest Over several years there either the materials, from for low impact building solutions or renewable Hub or other closely linked industry bodies, such as the UK Carbon Zero carbon, for these bodies, is Council (UKGBC 2012). Zero Building Green and not embodied energy efficiency in terms of energy largely interpreted meant Carbon’ had never really impact. In any case, ‘Zero or environmental when the new Alliance Government took over (as was redefined and ‘zero’ defined as were carbon targets detail in Chapter 4). Zero explained in more between 10 kg and 14 kg of CO commissioned a study, which led to the Strategy for Sustainable for Sustainable the Strategy led to which a study, commissioned materials receive construction did renewable in June 2008, Construction, brief included a This report Government 2008) (HM recognition any official to track It is hard materials. the use of renewable to exploring commitment from seconded staff was worked on by report came about, as the how this were companies and Skanska. These Lafarge firms, Atkins, construction mate- than for renewable of cement and concrete better known for support other government been some lobbying from may have rials but there Construction the subsequent Strategy for Sustainable departments. In of it was noted that up to £6 million Report, of September 2009, Progress (see below) for ‘60 had been allocated under the LCIF government funding innovative highly insulating homes using low carbon affordable or more (BIS 2012) construction materials.’ renewable part of a Low CarbonInnovation Fund (LCIF) which was The Low Carbon Investment Fund and to as the Low Carbon Plan was then referred Transition housing The funding for renewable Industrial Strategy. also the Low Carbon and Programme to as the Renewable Carbon Demonstration was referred confusion of names is just one This then the Renewable House Programme. origins of this funding or the it was to pin down the indication of how hard one government names from of policy thinking. The change in direction seemed to happen almost at ran- website and policy document to another of policy confusion on how to tackledom and is an indication of the level among civil servants. This con- carbon emissions climate change and reduce the change of government, as policyfusion appears to have continued with has changed almost every month. in particular, energy, on renewable advice to provide was intended Carbon Hub. This organisation of the Zero in housing and carbon targets ‘zero and policy on how to achieve so-called had some success in drawing Carbon Hub may have building’. The Zero at best, only a it has provided, saving but attention to the need for energy It has been run by people seconded partial understanding of the issues. Knauf, a multinational industry such as David Adams of mainstream from synthetic insulation manufacturer. publication of The Government is The Government also has a number of initiatives in place to specifically help the barriers to the use of innovative low carbon construction materi- remove the These range from als, including biomass-based products. technical guides and environmental profiles for a range of crop based con- for a range of crop profiles technical guides and environmental plant struction materials, to funding support for a new material processing and the building of a low carbon materials demonstration house at the Establishment (BRE) in Watford. Building Research There was little evidence that Government zero carbon targets were were targets carbon zero Government that evidence was little There Ltd) to build CZero (Linford private developer to finance a DEFRA helped con- added, at the BRE, using low impact were A further two houses House, it seems that DECC, of the success of the Renewable As a result the Renewable Building Group, For instance, as far as can be established, The only solid evidence of an announcement is in a document entitled linked in any way to the use of renewable materials and the Renewable and the Renewable materials use of renewable any way to the linked in obvious policy without nowhere almost from emerged House Programme in the field. experts advice from (BRE 2012a) in in Watford BRE innovation park house at the a hemp lime had Park already House 2012). The BRE Innovation June 2009 (Renewable because which had attracted criticism innovative projects an array of highly carbon the 2016 zero that it demonstrated that achieving it was suggested 2007). ‘too costly’ (Vaughan were targets Foundation by the Prince’s one of which, sponsored struction methods, clay bricks. The was to be built of lightweight hollow (BRE 2012b) and and Lhoist Ltd, Lime Technology built by CZero, hemp lime house, seen as an immediate NNFCC and DEFRA/DECC, was supported by the It was also com- built very quickly – in just a few days. success as it was in projects budget (unlike many of the other pleted to a very reasonable hemp lime construction could be used the Innovation Park) suggesting that to private develop- social housing and should be attractive for affordable ers (Renewable House 2012). to finance a further Treasury able to persuade the and the NNFCC, were Plans to provide materials. to encourage the use of renewable programme the Renewable House at the before this finance must have been in place within weeks of the house being BRE was constructed, if it was launched working on were many experts who opened as claimed by DECC. However, been launched had not told that this programme materials, were renewable announcement on the website that in July 2009 and did not see the DECC months later. £6 million was available until many the July launch. At the 23 September run by NNFCC, was not told about not discussed and hosted by the NNFCC, it was 2009 meeting in York, mentioned at in the minutes. The launch was not is nothing recorded there in London, even though it was attended the fifth meeting, in January 2010, of the main people DECC who was one from by Iris Anderson, an official (Renewable Building Group programme involved in launching the £6 million 2009/10). published in ‘The UK Low Carbon Industrial Strategy’ which was apparently July 2009.

The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement! 96

Monitoring and evaluation 97

. The proposed proposed Strategy for Strategy for was launched), most of the most of the was launched), (Department for Business, 2009) (Department investing up to £6 million to construct 60 or more low carbon affordable affordable low carbon or more 60 to construct £6 million up to investing materials renewable highly insulating with innovative, homes built a catalyst materials, act as the viability of these will demonstrate new scheme the affordable industry and engage construction materials for the renewable added) agenda. (emphasis in the low carbon housing sector The Renewable Building Group, supported by the NNFCC, was formed by the NNFCC, was formed supported The Renewable Building Group, to spend £6 million of public It might have been expected that in order By the time some members of the Renewable Building Group found out found out Group members of the Renewable Building By the time some the in the autumn of 2009 (when about the £6 million, Report Progress Sustainable Construction and Diss allocated to two housing projects, been funding had already Lime materials from to using hempcrete committed Swindon, which were of in the House report At the launch of the strategy progress Technology. had attended from September 2009, civil servants who Commons on 15 in the report. about the £6 million mentioned questioned DECC were that could be funded in was a project if there was to ask Their response of Social Development The Department this money. from Northern Ireland November 2009. In response was only contacted in mid in Northern Ireland Government, it was to the Scottish of information request to a freedom contacted by DECC on 21 was only stated that the Scottish Office 2012). It is curious that even December 2009 (Scottish Government regional the in July, been launched had apparently though the programme to put forward only contacted in late autumn governments were schemes. of kinds different in many a wide range of people with interests from in the autumn when was some concern materials and there renewable initiative. Some members of this DECC some members became aware bulk of the money had that the most annoyed when they discovered were Managing Neil May, schemes. been allocated to two hempcrete already servants at (NBT) tackled civil of Natural Building Technologies Director 2009 in November in York Supply Chain conference the NNFCC Green had not been included in hempcrete and asked why materials other than the £6 million Following this, John Williams of the NNFCC programme. Gary Newman, were Building Group, and the chair of the Renewable that might be eligi- materials a list of other renewable asked to produce it was issued as here is reproduced ble for grant funding. This list had at the end of 2009, some 6 months after the programme (Table 3.1) then were allegedly been announced. A number of other projects projects using other materials and some further hempcrete approved discussed in added, leading to the twelve case study projects also were that money had to be Chapter 2. At this stage it was still a requirement is summarised in spent by April 2010. The time line of this process Table 3.2. an open competition would have been held. Such a competition money, clear criteria as to which materials could be used would have required would have been some kind of independent scrutiny of the and there Table 3.1 Renewable materials list drawn up by the NNFCC. The information below reproduced as it was issued though two additional columns omitted for clarity This list has been compiled by members of the Renewable Building thematic working group. The products listed have been approved by the NNFCC as appropriate for consideration for the DECC funded grant scheme to support the construction of ‘low carbon affordable homes built with innovative, highly insulating renewable materials’. For further information please contact: John Williams, NNFCC or Gary Newman – Plant Fibre Technology and Chair of Renewable Building.

Brand Product description Manufacturer or Summary of properties Country of Environmental supplier(s) manufacture credentials (incl. bio-based content)

Thermafleece Sheep’s Wool Second Nature UK Thermal and acoustic UK 85% w/w bio-based Insulation Ltd insulation content 23 kg/m3 λ – 0.038 W/mK Thermafleece PB20 Sheep’s Wool & Second Nature UK Thermal and acoustic UK 60% w/w bio-based Recycled Polyester Ltd insulation content Insulation 20 kg/m3 λ – 0.039 W/mK Tradical® Hemcrete® Insulating bio- Lime Technology Insulating, good thermal UK 110 kg of hemp shiv per composite for walls in Ltd inertia, fire resistant, cubic metre. Locks up conjunction with a around 110–130 kg of 3 structural frame CO2/m Breathe Insulation Natural fibre Hemp Technology Insulation quilt with similar UK from 2010 95% natural fibre insulation batts based and Lime conductivity to mineral on hemp Technology fibre NBT Pavaclad Pavatherm Plus/ NBT External wall with Switzerland 95–97% waste from Isolair ventilated sustainable forestry woodfibre boards cladding NBT Diffutherm Diffutherm board plus NBT External wall insulation Switzerland 98% waste wood from Baumit renders with render system sustainable forestry NBT Pavaroof Pavatherm Plus/ NBT Pitched or flat roofing Switzerland 95–97% waste from Isolair wood fibre sarking boards sustainable forestry boards Steico Wood fibre Ecomerchant brand Natural wood based Poland Wood fibre, breathable of Burdens insulation Viking joiner Ecomerchant brand Wood windows and doors Estonia FSC timber, water based of Burdens paints Black Mountain Sheep wool insulation Black Mountain Made from 100% virgin UK Min 85% virgin wool Sheep wool wool with up to 15% insulation binder Isonat+ Hemp and wood fibre Ecomerchant λ – 0.038 W/mK France 55% wood fibre insulation www.ecomerchant. high density 30% hemp fibre co.uk 45 & 55 kg/m3 15% polyester binder NBT www.natural- building.co.uk ModCell Pre-Fabricated straw ModCell Ltd FSC/PEFC, pre-fabricated UK, Within Straw bales bale panels structural timber frame 3–25 miles of hemp using renewable and construction FSC/PEFC timber. sustainable straw bales as site via local its insulating material ‘flying factory’ temporary manufacturing units Other Products include Wood Windows Wood Window Alliance approved high performance, fully certified wooden windows – see www.woodwindowalliance.com for performance and sustainability standards and a list of suppliers. Straw bales Straw bales have been approved for use by Building Control Departments throughout the UK. Straw bales council houses are currently being built by Amazonails (www.amazonails.org.uk). Straw bales are low cost, highly insulating, 100% bio-based and readily available. This process may provide an insight into how the UK Government some- an insight into how the UK may provide This process about money on a report spent It was surprising that, having previously outlined above, It was possible to check the facts about the process process in order to ensure fairness about the selection. It might also have also have fairness about the selection. It might to ensure in order process materials would have been part been expected that a list of eligible of the loose, quite a few of so were criteria for funding. As the criteria the projects – as shown in Chapter 2 – did not necessarily use a ‘high in the scheme conditions materials as required of renewable proportion’ published by DECC. rules about strict bureaucratic tape and times works. Despite all sorts of red discover what to hard and fair competition, it is tendering, procurement It seems that this money. was followed to allocate sort of ‘due process’ & Communities Agency (HCA) to DECC called upon the English Homes pro- and ask them if they could identify social landlords registered circulate of the money A small amount the money could be spent quickly. jects where Northern Scotland and governments in Wales, to regional was also offered in Scotland, one in Wales two projects As a result, but much later. Ireland, approved eight were also supported and were and one in Northern Ireland in England. from hemp lime construction, DECC had not sought independent advice to even though the bulk of projects about the programme the researchers to use this form of construction. The Northern Ireland be funded were on a Department of Social Development did ask for advice but only voluntary basis. of Information Act. A student at the under the Freedom responses through submitted a Graduate School, in Wales, Alternative Technology for Centre by both DECC and the answered series of questions to DECC, which were Homes & Communities Agency (DECC 2010; HCA 2010) and he kindly passed this information on. RHP timeline July 2009 – Renewable house opened at BRE Renewable house opened July 2009 – programme launched £6 million DECC claim to have July 2009 – Swindon projects allocated to Diss and the programme 60% of money from July 2009 – to the £6 million document which referred – launch of strategy Sept 2009 in York conference Nov 2009 – NNFCC eligible project DSD contacted to find Ireland Nov 2009 – Northern materials list of approved chair to prepare building group asks renewable Dec 2009 – NNFCC projects Government contacted to find eligible December 2009 – Scottish completed and money spent meant to be were April 2010 – projects complete project Late 2010 – Welsh began to be completed 2011 – other projects but not completed until 2012 and Callowlands begin on site 2011 – Reed Street in Leeds start on site Early 2012 – final projects Table 3.2 3.2 Table

The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement! 100 Monitoring and evaluation 101 DECC’s reply explained that £6 million was originally available to build 60 to build available originally was that £6 million explained reply DECC’s terms. set out in general only ever were for the programme The criteria used to evaluate the criteria were student, what CAT When asked by the is that DECC and the HCA what appears to have happened In reality to just one nearly half of the £6.7 million grant was allocated However, (which is a private development company) said on their website CZero homes, but then £6.7 million went towards ‘283 homes using innovative using innovative ‘283 homes went towards then £6.7 million homes, but total, the intended (While 283 was materials’. renewable highly insulation 200 only built, so in reality only 29 were where 114 in Norfolk this included by the programme.) funded houses were a certain pro- had to use never clear whether projects For instance, it was materials and insulation on innovative renewable portion of the grant energy. renewable could be used for other things like whether the grant grant this, they said that the entire questioned about were When officials been seen, insulation materials, but as has on renewable was meant to go the grant appear to the case. Most agencies spending this was clearly not of the whole that would assist the feasibility it as money have interpreted materials. than to pay for renewable development rather that very vague, simply stating were the replies applications for grant, HCA, DSD, delivery bodies, and the relevant DECC and the NNFCC Governments followed ‘funding and procurement Scottish and Welsh When asked why there not stated. are rules’, though what rules these were referred are system, timing restrictions open and transparent a more wasn’t was provided. to. No list of unsuccessful applications spend the money in a on which to so desperate to find any projects were any project process; was no competition short period of time that there ran out. until the money to qualify was approved which appeared Diss, Norfolk. A substantial amount wasscheme, the planned 114 houses in scheme in Swindon. This appears toalso committed to the Kevin McCloud appears to have There in the process. have happened at a very early stage was allocated with substantial amountsbeen little consistency in how the money to the size of the project. unrelated going to some and very little to others, the programme, over half of all the funds from that they had received 2012), but DECC (CZero removed though this statement has now been In the Diss social landlords. given to registered stated that all funds were only 15 houses (apartments) have been built for the local Flagship project built the houses but the CZero Housing Association (RSL). The developer as part grant had to be paid to Flagship HA. The Section 106 agreement units, the rest 15 socially rented only required of the planning approval to as discounted market for sale (referred intended to be affordable were sale). The capital cost of the scheme was originally estimated to be £11.5 (Linford to Simon Linford million, including the Flagship houses, according was 2011), who said that the grant ‘was essential because the scheme to use going already were crash. We unviable having been negotiated pre the grant enabled the feasibility of materials.’ In other words renewable materials. homes, rather than renewable low-cost affordable providing also to be sold at normal market houses on the plan for the site were A few local prices. Arrangements for discounted sale of houses has to have At a meeting arranged by the HCA in Milton Keynes on 20 September Keynes on 20 the HCA in Milton arranged by At a meeting Flagship and here. occurred that anything improper It is not suggested (Question 26) whether the grant was DECC was asked in the FOI enquiry of the Renewable Building of the intervention by members As a result declined the funding. project The HCA also stated that one ‘eligible’ At a meeting at the HCA in Milton Keynes in September 2011, to review authority approval and also requires the support of mortgage lenders. The The lenders. of mortgage support the requires and also approval authority or building societies with getting problems Diss ran into some scheme at lend. banks to stated that a cost breakdown presented CZero Pearson of 2011, Robert the 15 for including 1 (presumably built in Phase were that 29 houses design costs capital cost of £2,547,835 not including Flagship) at a total awarded all the £3million grant that had been Thus not and LABC warranty. for the in arranging mortgage finance Given difficulties had been spent. would unlikely that any further houses houses for sale, it seems affordable of the scheme may in the short term, but further phases be built in Phase 2 the be funded by which will presumably the future be constructed in of £452,165. unspent balance remaining for this book, to the research in response very open and helpful were CZero such a why the Flagship scheme required to understand but it is still hard much less which received the other projects, with high subsidy compared built. All the other projects were funding, particularly as so few houses or co-ownership, houses socially rented funded under the scheme were Many of the houses cooperative. LILAC, which is a mixed tenure apart from in the housing for sale’ but due to problems meant to be ‘affordable were not uncommon for registered It is market, many ended up being rented. ‘low wing, which provides to have a private development social landlords for sale. at Diss the bulk were cost’ houses for sale. However, The DECC response not renewable. are given for the use of materials that willing to maximise/make for projects awarded stated, ‘The grants were FOI 2010) and yet grant was materials’ (DECC substantial use of renewable based materials. The Scottish in Fife that used fossil fuel given to the project this. approved Government confirmed that they had of materials, list of the NNFCC approved and with the provision Group, mainly wood fibre, hempcrete, used materials other than other projects money com- but with much smaller allocations of wool and straw, sheep’s used in materials were with Diss and Swindon. Despite this synthetic pared and other elements in some of the projects. roofs (HCA 2010) that the money had to be spent by They state in their FOI reply of April 2010 and that if not spent could be claimed back. In practice, few spent the money by April 2010 and thus the money had to be the projects to In order being started on the ground. paid out in advance of projects it was paid to the builders or developers or agents in ‘spend’ the money, even the site or advance of work starting on site, or in one case before planning permission had been acquired! deal of had been a great it was clear that there on the projects, progress had not even projects and that two or three slippage in the programme and only about to start on site (Callowlands, Reed Street started or were

The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement! 102 Monitoring and evaluation 103 (Williams 2011) There are 2 projects: Provision and Installation of equipment – Carnego Provision 2 projects: are There Due to her monitoring related experience Cathie Eberlin (of Leading Energy) experience Cathie Eberlin (of Leading Energy) Due to her monitoring related was only appointed to manage the tender winners, translate the data when it back mechanism we had consistency and a reporting came in, and to ensure money available: £250k. project to NNFCC, DECC and HCA. Total £142k. Data collecting and analysis – budget approximately Systems. Total This left approximately £89k. budget approximately Total Emissions Zero. management costs going forward. £19k to cover all administrative and project This particular process and decision is curious in a number of ways. Firstly, and decision is curious in a number of ways. Firstly, This particular process than one more it would have made sense to monitor a scheme where material had been used. For instance, in Letchworth the project renewable A key element of the programme, referred to by DECC in the initial referred the programme, A key element of funding for the moni- and evaluation. However, statement, was monitoring NNFCC. It is not clear to the in summer 2010, according toring was refused in the original £6.7 million as this why monitoring had not been included in car- interested bodies Various was meant to be part of the programme. 2010, by John Williams of the told on 25 May rying out the monitoring were it then emerged but money, was no NNFCC (Williams 2010), that there Keynes meeting that ‘£100,000’ had later at the September 2011 Milton to Cathie Eberlin of Leading awarded been found and that a contract was While of the projects. of two to manage a monitoring programme Energy it was to at the meeting was £100,000 for monitoring, referred the figure that it was actually £250,000. Both of then confirmed later by John Williams the two schemes, hempcrete selected for monitoring were the projects appear not to have projects in Diss and Swindon. Other initial projects to Williams, this funding. According been given any opportunity to access very late in 2010 and ‘tight timing’ money suddenly became available determine who would run the was very little actual time to meant that there the from based on advice to six organisations but it was tendered projects, to identify and the BRE. It has not been possible Saving Trust HCS, Energy to Leading Energy: The contract was awarded who the other five were. LILAC). HCA officials stated at the meeting that the programme had been had been the programme that the meeting stated at officials HCA LILAC). when however, had been identified; problems and that no audited (twice) was sim- seems that one audit of these audits it writing for details asked in ever were of the other audit HCA. No details audit of the ply a general 2010 annual report in the HCA is simply mentioned The RHP provided. account- government that it is acceptable It has to be assumed (HCA 2010). actu- committed, if not that are over money for projects ing practice to pay for over a year or even and that this money can be held ally built or started, been would have have gone ahead there all the projects several years. As to be paid back, presumably. no need for any money Monitoring and evaluation Monitoring and monitoring, supplied the renewable mate- supplied the renewable Leading Energy had close personal links to Lime Technology at the time personal links to Lime Technology had close Leading Energy £142,000 to supply who received Carnego Systems, based in Cornwall, Swindon and Diss, it was not in During second visits to both the projects to be managed by sensible for monitoring It might have been more is Fortunately some other monitoring and evaluation of the projects to get in order The excuse for the unseemly haste in the programme had both identical hempcrete and wood fibre insulated houses. Thus a Thus houses. insulated fibre and wood hempcrete both identical had of the two the performance made between could have been comparison funding was allo- that the monitoring it is curious Secondly, technologies. the and were bulk of the grant the that had received the projects cated to own to fund their in a better position they were to be selected as first two were there was available monitoring funding By the time the monitoring. lower but as they received well under way, projects several of the other with their have been better to help them levels of grant it might the RHP grant. of receiving which was a condition Lime Technology the contract was awarded. and Swindon. at Diss system that was to be monitored rials and construction pro- was to manage the Leading Energy to the NNFCC, While according a to Emission Zero scientific monitoring work was given cess, most of the City at Birmingham run by Lubo Jankovic, a lecturer consultancy firm was though Birmingham City University of Architecture, University School not involved. and Swindon, was also the in Diss monitoring equipment for the projects Shimmy to Kevin McCloud’s a system called Hab company that had provided computer system in each of the development company for an on-line to be useful the Hab Shimmys were Swindon houses. It is understood that usage, though appar- their energy for the tenants of the houses to monitor of the scheme. However, monitoring ently not connected with the energy problems were confirmed that there tenants interviewed at the Triangle, in. the day they moved with the Shimmys from equipment in place such as thermal possible to observe any monitoring in place but were these were or data loggers. Occupants thought probes they had not seen any- and said that they were unable to point out where and said they had not been involved. one with thermal imaging cameras of any of the parties involved in completely independent agencies that were in the interest who had expressed Some University researchers the projects. When was no money available. told, that there were monitoring process not invited to tender. work they were £250k did become available for this have been assumed that few of this work it may Given the innovative nature equipped to carry out such monitoring. properly were organisations in DECC or the HCA. The project been carried out without funding from fund- University through has been assessed by Leeds Metropolitan York this work from Initial results Strategy Board. the Technology ing from Results on 29 November. at an open meeting in York presented were have not yet been seen work managed by Leading Energy the from to others. Analysis will be done by though they may have been circulated scheme. of the Welsh University Metropolitan Cardiff car- money spent by April 2010 seems undermined by the lengthy delays in

The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement! 104 Monitoring and evaluation 105 Perhaps a little more time and care could have been taken to set up the could have been taken to set up and care time Perhaps a little more and evaluat- for selecting and then monitoring scientific protocol A more potentially under- the start, thoughtlessness has, from The bureaucratic the best way was not necessarily that this approach It could be argued was a risk that the Due to government changes and financial cuts, there rying out some of the projects. While some were under way by April 2010 April 2010 way by under were While some projects. of the out some rying Such implementa- so quickly. work to be done easy for building it was not those in particularly housing projects, uncommon in any not are tion delays to planning due be many problems can because there sector, the public Design problems. and contracting tendering land purchase, permissions, many of the been needed as would also have changes and specification the RHP grant was designed before been selected had already projects awarded. This would process. competition open and transparent with a more project to and technologies for a wider range of approaches have made it possible In the end and scientific approach. considered a more be selected, using while other materi- products hempcrete used than half of the projects more hemp insulation batts and straw could fibre, wool, wood als such as sheep’s a highly innovative For instance, represented. strongly have been more could straw bale construction in Lincolnshire using social housing project 2012). and supported with a grant (Strawbale have been extended leading with help from could have been established, ing the projects to set up a small moni- in the field. It would have made sense researchers like Bath, places from materials with experts in renewable toring group Bangor Universities and the NNFCC Plymouth, Nottingham, Leeds and normal practice to have It would be perfectly Renewable Building Group. such a steering group. at risk how renewable and thus put of the programme mined the credibility policy for the past UK government materials could have been perceived. of this kind, for research government funding few years has been to reduce to have withdrawn Alliance Government appears and the new Tory/Liberal is unlikely so there programmes any innovative demonstration funding from to be another chance for some time. signifi- As well as providing materials. to encourage the use of renewable Hub, which has acted as a Carbon Zero cant finance to the ‘independent’ materials, the based synthetic advocate for petrochemical strong the Renewable Building to support Government could have done more the benefits to explore which could then have carried out research Group, would also have been a materials. Demonstration projects of renewable a body like the useful tool, but these could have been assisted through finance to a significant which has provided Strategy Board, Technology (TSB 2012). It seems likely that demonstration projects number of retrofit the Government was poorly advised about these issues and decisions far too quickly. taken were would be no follow- RHP would disappear into the mists of time as there The team at seems unlikely. into the programme report up, and an official and been dispersed to other roles, involved, have the HCA, who were materials. Government DECC no longer has a brief to support renewable The UK Low Carbon The UK Low Carbon BRE Press 2008 BRE Press : Andrew Cripps and Buro Happold, CIRIA RP680, Cripps and Buro : Andrew Hemp Lime Construction URN (July 2009) 09/1058 Crops in construction in Crops Industrial Strategy 10.2.12) Government archives: (7.9.11) http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/ (7.9.11) Government archives: http://www.berr.gov.uk/policies/business-sectors/construction/sustainable-con (viewed 11.5.12) struction/strategy-for-sustainable-construction London 2004 30 July 2010 Construction Demonstration Programme, Sustainable Construction 2008 London 2009/2010 HC 265, The Stationery Office, 2002 March Trust Efficiency Energy Report. Impetus Consulting and Pilkington 28.2.12) (viewed http://www.nnfcc.co.uk/about-nnfcc on Renewable Building 23 September 2009 at Ramada Group Working Technical 27 January 2010 at Davis Langdon in hosted by NNFCC and York, Hotel, Encore London Division FoI/11/01666 (viewed 12.1.12) 11.5.12)Scottish Government Housing Supply (viewed 14.02.12) (viewed 6.2.12) ourstrategy/innovationplatforms/lowimpactbuilding/retrofit-.ashx BRE (2012a) Innovation Park http://www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=634 (viewed Park http://www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=634 BRE (2012a) Innovation (viewed 2.3.12) BRE (2012b) http://www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=2075 CIRIA: politicians have visited the projects at Stanton Harcourt and Swindon but Swindon and Harcourt at Stanton the projects visited have politicians about the renewable briefed properly were evidence that they is no there looking at! they were materials (viewed 2012) www.asbp.org.uk Building Products ASBP Alliance for Sustainable T. Bevan R. and Woolley so in longer in force for sustainable construction …no BIS (2012) Strategy for Business, Innovation and Skills BIS (2009) Department (viewed 28.9.12) http://www.czero.com/ CZero and Climate Change 10/1507 EIR Request Renewable DECC, Department of Energy FOI RFI:2609-10 30 July 2010 HCA Homes and Communities Agency Forum for Construction: Strategy for HM Government in association with Strategic Report and Financial Statements Homes and Communities Agency Annual Renewable Insulation Materials: A Summary Impetus Consulting: Market Review of email to the author dated 15 December 2011 S. Linford Fuels and Materials Energy, for Biorenewable National Centre NNFCC – the UK’s (2009/10) Minutes of the 4th and 5th meetings of the Renewable Building Group (viewed Renewable House (2012) http://www.renewable-house.co.uk/news/2/ Strawbale (2012) http://www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/nk-straw-houses/106433.article http://www.innovateuk.org/ Future for the (TSB) Retrofit Strategy Board Technology (viewed 5.2.12) Building Council http://www.ukgbc.org UK Green Journal 30.08.07 pp.10–11 R. (2007) Architects Vaughan Williams J. email 25 May 2010 Williams J. email 19 October 2011 (viewed 14.10.10) Carbon Hub http://www.zerocarbonhub.org/ Zero References

The Renewable House Programme: a strange procurement! 106 4. Analysis of issues arising from the case studies

There are a number of general and more specific technical issues arising from the case studies that highlight positive results, but also problems related to the use of natural renewable materials.

Success in using natural renewable materials

In general terms, despite a number of small problems, all of the 12 com- pleted demonstration projects in the Renewable House Programme (RHP) were built and occupied successfully. The use of natural renewable materials in these houses was achieved with few reports of occupant dissatisfaction. It will be important to do a follow-up study after two or three years and also compare occupant attitudes and energy usage in the RHP houses with some other houses built more conventionally at the same time. If the DECC and the HCA had sought proper academic and professional advice at the start, the importance of funding such a follow-up study could have been included. Only by carrying out such a study can the long-term success, or otherwise, of the programme be properly assessed. There is anecdotal evidence that many Code 4 type houses built in the UK in recent years – particularly those using modern methods of construction (MMC) – have experienced problems. Occupants complain of higher heating bills than expected, overheating in the summer, noise transmission from adjoining houses and under-performing renewable energy equipment. Other issues such as health problems for indoor pollution are less com- monly reported, as awareness of such issues is low in the UK. There are very few published scientific or academic analyses of these problems with most of the reportage being on web sites, blogs and conference reports (building4change 2012; CIBSE (2005); Greenwise 2012).

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (EST 2012) (Gorse 2010) (Wingfield 2012) The results will allow us to make comparisons between actual performance comparisons between actual performance will allow us to make The results …the general view, promoted by enthusiasts for MMC, that by adopting new promoted …the general view, MMC techniques and novel heating technologies the industry will somehow performance issues is, in and related problems construction process overcome our view fatally flawed. In all of the (LMU) case studies the designer and builder failed to produce low and builder failed to produce In all of the (LMU) case studies the designer is attempting to develop low car- carbon buildings specified … The industry and understanding of the construction process bon buildings without a real the performance of components used. Good Homes Alliance monitoring project: We are working in partnership with the are We monitoring project: Good Homes Alliance partners in an (GHA) to support them and their academic Good Homes Alliance monitor and evaluate the perfor- to and development project exciting research Our monitoringof high-level sustainable new build homes. mance of a number sites represent- developer’s four GHA member being used across are protocols in design aspiration types to help understand any gap ing a range of construction 2011. 2010 and – monitoring will take place through and as-built performance which SAP, the Code for Sustainable Homes and such as and design targets They will also better inform us how the 100% different. can be as much as use and carbon energy actually being used; what the delivered homes are carbon technologies any low and zero how effective in reality; emissions are like; what the comfort and indoor air quality conditions are in practice; are the home. perceives and how the resident Bodies such as the UK Energy Saving Trust (EST) have a responsibility for a responsibility have (EST) Trust Saving Energy the UK such as Bodies The RHP, in promoting the use of renewable materials, can be seen as an the use of renewable in promoting The RHP, the headlong pursuit of MMC, advocated by both attempt to depart from Evaluations of this nature are urgently needed because there is so little is so needed because there urgently are Evaluations of this nature housing. The work at Leeds energy data on the performance of low built houses that recently University has shown convincingly Metropolitan efficiency. in terms of energy achieve design targets rarely Elm in York, project Trust Housing For instance, at the Joseph Rowntree 2010). Mews, dwelling heat loss was 54% higher than designed (JRF Tree University empha- Leeds Metropolitan The team carrying out this work at building fabric right as this will last sised the importance of getting the being added into that are systems much longer than the expensive energy very they are their analysis of a number of projects new housing. Through critical of government policy of encouraging MMC. evaluation but appear to focus their efforts on promoting low energy design low energy on promoting their efforts but appear to focus evaluation The EST achieved (EST 2012). it has been assessing whether rather than should be occupancy evaluation on how post general guidance provides (GHA) to Good Homes Alliance working with the and they are carried out some projects. evaluate

Analysis of issues arising from the case studies 108 Adapting conventional timber frame construction for using natural materials 109 (Harty 2007) This is partly due to the traditionally slow uptake of technological innovation the traditionally slow uptake of technological This is partly due to as a concurs with the view of ‘construction arguably in house building, and sector’ low tech, low innovating The RHP, in using natural and wet materials like hempcrete, will have will have in using natural and wet materials like hempcrete, The RHP, Two principal methods of construction were used in the RHP case study used in the RHP principal methods of construction were Two Inverness). Both meth- LILAC Leeds, Pittenweem and (apart from projects construction, adapted for based on simple timber frame panel ods were and natural insulation. On most pro- or with wood fibreboards hempcrete supplied by specialist jects, the softwood timber frame open panels were mm studs. Further 140 subcontractors, and usually consisted of standard or other sheathing and such like was fixing of permanent shuttering boards to be very done on site. None of the timber frame suppliers appeared and any issues to do of the projects much involved in the unusual nature by the contractor on site. It is with the timber frames had to be resolved and there normal practice for open timber frame panels to be made off-site with making them on site. This did not may be small cost savings compared In the case of hempcrete, seem to lead to any particular difficulties. placed used except that the studs were conventional timber frames were Despite the assumption that the construction industry is slow to take up that the construction industry Despite the assumption with brick outer while new houses may look traditional, innovation, in reality, new and house construction is very is done in current facing, much of what poorly understood techniques that are involves a range of materials and to be panels may appear prefabricated and little tested. Assembling off-site but in an attempt to achieve airtightness and design quick and efficient taped and wrapped in various buildings are efficiency, of energy targets not stand the test of time. materials and components that may is often Hempcrete a step backwards. looked to the advocates of MMC as though it is in fact to as a traditional form of construction even referred and such as Lime Technology companies highly innovative. Furthermore, training, techni- suppliers, providing NBT go much further than many other material also adapted their renewable cal advice to designers and have solutions to meet demands for prefabrication. a series of government reports and main stream industry. The construction The construction industry. stream and main reports of government a series even though looking and traditional backward is characterised as industry rise and might give benefits have great these traditional practices many of lit- is very there Ball 2005) Interestingly (Callcutt 2007; standards. to higher on the subject books and promised in print on MMC, literature tle technical in their Pan (2012) Goodier and Wei (Lawson 2010). to emerge have yet been about MMC, and whether it has the range of views review RICS report change. to technological Harty on the resistance a success or not, citing Adapting conventional timber frame construction Adapting conventional timber for using natural materials Conventional eaves boards, tight to the walls, were used in nearly all the were tight to the walls, Conventional eaves boards, prob- any weathering are to see whether there It will be interesting The traditional axiom of having a ‘good hat and a good pair of boots’, None of the suppliers of the renewable materials were in a position to in a position materials were of the renewable None of the suppliers The issue of detailing can be identified as a major question mark for most can be identified as a major question The issue of detailing late changed relatively were In many cases, existing designs of the projects. changes to materials. Significant to incorporate renewable in the day, style houses – pitched roof not made. In the ‘traditional’ detailing were to Diss and Blackditch – no changes appear Carnlough, York, Abertridwr, window and door surrounds. overhangs or have been made to increase as extending roof main factor here Economy seems to have been the quality gutters and down- overhangs and using better trusses for greater costs. pipes would have increased used and Callowlands projects including Swindon. The Letchworth projects The LILAC overhangs. style, again with limited roof modern flat roof a more Modcell ‘Balehouse’ standard is based on designs following the project all. At Swindon the design and and no overhangs at design with flat roofs and other environmen- account of the use of hempcrete details took more made of Gutters and downpipes were tal aims such as natural ventilation. quality look to the scheme. galvanised steel and this gave a higher but this deep window reveals overhangs and lems due to the lack of roof and years. With lime based renders may not become clear for some to be needs care greater and hempcrete, materials such as wood fibre has This approach protection. taken with detailing and better weather stood the test of time for many centuries, using traditional materials. builders and clients involved in the RHP architects, most of the However, a natural or traditional building have not necessarily come from projects made and very often the final decisions about detailing were background on site by builders. to in traditional lime and earth based construction, has often referred to see the outcome. not been applied and it will be interesting therefore materials are of natural and renewable On the other hand the proponents using such materials from should not be deterred anxious that architects because of aesthetic restrictions. on the inside and permanent shuttering boards fixed to these. Hempcrete these. Hempcrete fixed to boards shuttering and permanent inside on the subcontrac- by specialist shuttering installed cast using temporary was then In weather conditions. severe with this was the problem only real tors. The and the contractors Pavatex materials, fibre of the NBT wood the case with the fixing require- in complying problems some reported architects resolved. all were though these the Pavatex system ments of up, though package when the RHP was set a complete construction offer the Modcell through the full panels will be assembled at the LILAC in Leeds, system. The importance of getting details right and using details of getting details right and The importance for eco materials appropriate

Analysis of issues arising from the case studies 110 Problems with designs and the need to get warranty approvals for changes of details 111 LABC provides registered details on-line so, for instance, Lime so, for instance, Lime details on-line registered LABC provides certification, and on such relies The construction industry increasingly paper trail is based on genuine, and While the warranty and certification that delays were said involved in the RHP case study projects Architects As outlined in Chapter 2, a decision was taken at the Callowlands project Both Tradical Hemcrete and the NBT wood fibre products have gone have gone products wood fibre and the NBT Hemcrete Both Tradical These approvals procedures. and certification range of approvals though a (BBA of Agrément British Board For instance, obtaining very expensive. are is a This may cost £30,000 or more. for just one product 2012) certification a position to in are for a small company and not all massive investment LABC for instance began by obtaining Hemcrete, obtain such approvals. repre- LABC is a membership organisation (LABC 2012). system approval system of departments and their building control senting local authority require- will meet building regulation product indicates that a approval To 2012). a warranty service (LABC Warranty promotes ments. LABC also methods and the materials and the construction obtain LABC warranties, approved. details have to be structural panel have a system called hembuild (an off-site Technology It is also possible (14.09.12 – RD 1670911B). system) which is registered document, system certificate (LABC to access on-line a compliance sys- also has BBA certification. NBT Pavatex Hemcrete 2012) Tradical which can be accessed and BBA certificates tems have BBA approvals certificate product NBT Diffutherm on-line (BBA 2012). For instance, the is 10/4723. will those in the public sector, particularly without it many organisations, for public sector organisa- is also a requirement There not specify products. lend- by warranties, and mortgage covered are tions that building products ers for housing also look for these. and buildings will of products tests, the performance hopefully rigorous, building site. Good installed on the on how well they are depend largely than all the certi- is worth far more design and good construction practice a building will still be standing that fications and warranties, to be assured years’ time. and performing well in 30, 60 or 100 details if their designs did of revised caused by having to submit a series As the warranty warranty requirements. not comply with the original LABC for getting details responsibility applies to the material or product, differs, but clearly as each project lies with the materials supplier, approved details may not be appropriate. standard timber to use synthetic foam insulation in some of the wall sections where cladding was specified. These timber panels, adjacent to some rainscreen and the for aesthetic reasons, were windows and to the entrance porches, explanation given for using synthetic insulation was that the LABC warranty It as also timber cladding over hempcrete. the proposed did not approve a membrane behind the suggested that the LABC warranty would require As the exposed hempcrete. any driving rain reaching cladding to prevent Problems with designs and the need to get warranty warranty to get the need and designs with Problems of details for changes approvals The weather and drying out problems did cause some damp staining, did cause some damp staining, The weather and drying out problems At Letchworth, timber cladding over hempcrete was approved, appar- approved, was over hempcrete timber cladding At Letchworth, of the panels to use implications of changing some At Callowlands, the warranty systems. The war- indicate the limitations of These problems Much of the Tradical Hemcrete, used in the RHP projects was cast during was cast during used in the RHP projects Hemcrete, Much of the Tradical with tem- worst UK winters on record, the winter of 2010/11, one of the period. Conservation archi- falling to −16°C over an extended peratures cold tects and builders would never allow the use of lime during very used to working with construction industry, but the mainstream weather, may synthetic materials, carried on even when the weather was bad. This drying out and could even with the hempcrete have led to problems At Diss, the setting and carbonation process. possibly have affected used in an attempt to accelerate drying out as mois- dehumidifiers were with plastering and showed that they could not proceed readings ture though at Swindon, Blackditch and York painting. This was also a problem as in Diss. as severe not apparently Problems though this seemed to be quite limited at Blackditch and York. hempcrete, with a simple lime render, can be used as an external finish, this this finish, as an external be used can render, lime a simple with hempcrete, strange requirement. seems a designs where details to be agreed many other new were but there ently, by covered may not have been and so on, that parapets, balconies required have may warranty approval While obtaining details. approved previously of designs being a result was probably this to delay projects, appeared to get pro- Time pressures the grant became available. before prepared difficult. have made making detailing changes jects on site may of whether junctions would then have raised the issue synthetic insulation in good airtightness. insulation would result and foam between hempcrete to be material itself has that the rainscreen details means Using rainscreen rockwool compressed made from be used are The panels to approved. water based binding compounds with synthetic with thermo-hardening claimed to are finish. (Rockpanel 2012) Such panels acrylic decorative the so the risk of resistance of rain and moisture provide degree a high at Callowlands, However, behind getting wet should be minimal. hempcrete because insulation renewable required synthetic PIR was used instead of the the warranty to note that It is interesting problem. of the warranty approval substitution of synthetic products. system appears to have led to the every technical aspect of construc- ranty companies cannot possibly know on on consultants to advise rely tion materials and systems so they if likely to be highly risk averse, especially detailing. Such consultants are LABC Warranty not familiar with the technology being considered. they are owned by a com- organisation LABC and is an is completely separate from Ltd, based in Birkenhead at the time of pany called MD Insurance Services their use the same logo and style on writing. LABC and LABC Warranty websites. Weather issues and hempcrete Weather

Analysis of issues arising from the case studies 112 Weather issues and hempcrete 113 jects. and moisture (Resistant 2012) as well as superior performance in fire. as well as superior performance in fire. resistance Resistant Building Boards are a new age medium density Multi-Purpose a new age medium density are Resistant Building Boards for use A highly durable Non-Combustible board Magnesium Silicate Board. a combination of sound insulation, in applications requiring thermal Thistle plasters were used with acrylic paints on top of the Resistant used with acrylic paints on top of the Resistant Thistle plasters were A number of highly successful hempcrete housing projects had been had been housing projects successful hempcrete A number of highly since the BRE Renewable House, have used however, Lime Technology, Drying out of hempcrete was an issue in several of the RHP projects and and of the RHP projects was an issue in several Drying out of hempcrete established. Casting in cold for this have yet to be fully the reasons questioned the use of the and others have weather was the main reason to moisture is resistant Resistant permanent shuttering. While the board dry- it is also claimed to be vapour permeable and so should not inhibit is slow to dry out as a wet material by its nature, ing time. Hempcrete, one of speed of construction than a long term and so the issue is more problem. the normal whereas Diss and possibly two of the other projects, at board would be to use lime plasters or lime based specification for hempcrete normally rec- paints. Lime Technology plaster systems and microporous used on some, but were ommend the Baumit system, and these products not all Baumit of the RHP schemes (Baumit 2012). NBT also recommend were more severe in Swindon and Diss where problems with plastering with plastering problems where and Diss Swindon in severe more were when the hemp- On the other hand, experienced. were and painting of winter conditions during the mild Callowlands, was cast at crete a while both does take Hempcrete reported. were no problems 2011/12, when the weather it is best done but out fully, and then to dry to ‘go off’ is mild. 2008). Initially these UK (Bevan and Woolley the completed throughout shuttering on both sides for the hemp- used temporary removable projects House was built at when the Renewable to be cast on site. However, crete shuttering was Park, the use of permanent internal the BRE Innovation RHP pro technique was then applied in the This construction introduced. a using have been used on other projects boards Permanent shuttering wood wool Heraklith (Heraklith 2012). Most normally wood wool board, Heraklith, made in Austria, used magne- made with cement but are boards is now owned carbonate binder similar to lime. Heraklith site, a magnesium bonded with synthetic insulation products marketed by Knauf and is largely magnesite. The advan- no longer mentions literature Knauf’s to the board. can key which hempcrete is that it has a good tage of a wood wool board bond to and it is also breathable. marketed in the UK in China and manufactured a magnesium silicate board in place remains board (Resistant 2012). The Resistant as Resistant board is cast shuttering, and the hempcrete on the inside wall, as permanent then finishes are Plaster plastic shuttering externally. using removable In the Resistant brochure board. applied to the inside onto the Resistant resistant. is claimed to be moisture the product and when a ine the interior 2012a) it was possible to exam T (Lime Technology T (Lime Technology Swindon temporary damp staining during construction Swindon temporary damp staining during A further factor reported by builders was that the hemp and lime may by builders was A further factor reported from concerns were there began to be used widely When hempcrete Figure 4.1 Figure Given the buildability and drying out problems experienced in the RHP pro- Given the buildability and drying out problems it would develop off- announced that in future gramme, Lime Technology panels in addition to the in-situ casting method. This, they site prefabricated with their wood fibre boards (NBT boards with their wood fibre 2012). Thistle plasters and acrylic paints may and micropo- have been cheaper than using Baumit renders paints. rous shuttering, though permanent the Resistant board have debonded from drying out process. the this would not necessarily have affected not dry out and the lime might not car- sceptics and detractors that it might mm has been used to build 500 Hemcrete Tradical However, bonate properly. thick walls at the WISE building at CA hole was cut in a wall for a service duct that the wall had dried out all the wayof the wall. It could be clearly seen had suggested as some and that the lime was not dry and powdery, through has projects the many other hempcrete might be the case. Experience from caused by drying out prob- small delays were there shown that even where the successful use of the product. lems, in the long term this has not affected Decision of Lime Technology to go for prefabrication in future in future to go for prefabrication Decision of Lime Technology and whether this is the best option

Analysis of issues arising from the case studies 114 Using wood fibre products and issues related to construction and components 115 thereafter thereafter In order to achieve good standards of energy efficiency and airtightness and airtightness efficiency of energy to achieve good standards In order specified by the Pavatex materials, supplied the high standards However, materi- to examine how others see the use of renewable It is interesting The use of panels similar to MMC SIP construction methods may be similar to MMC SIP construction The use of panels continue to cast hemp and lime on Of course, it will still be possible to Given the problems experienced with drying out it was interesting to review to review out it was interesting experienced with drying Given the problems built using hemp houses were identical the experience at Letchworth where of the fears about hemp and system. One lime and with a dry wood fibre takes too long to cast. In fact, the dry lime is that it is labour intensive and at Letchworth, and the no quicker to construct solutions were wood fibre elements and with the many here experienced problems builder apparently components in the Pavatex systems. a complex build-up of layers with any sort of timber frame construction, not very differ- are systems fibre Wood and components is usually required. insulations. However, and other synthetic those using mineral fibre ent from short conventional construction methods and materials can often fall well of designed targets. to ensure and finishing in an effort deal of care a great require by NBT, The necessary quality efficiency. of airtightness and energy good standards a system developed in Switzerland, may be unfamiliar to the UK for control, by the components required The complications from construction industry. completed mean that the buildings were Pavatex, once mastered, without further difficulty. City at Letchworth and the Garden like Tomorrows als, when projects argue, allows them to control quality in the factory and provide some initial provide and the factory quality in control them to allows argue, site (Lime Technology to delivered are the panels time before drying out on a series of success with apparent has been used approach 2012b). This in Ellesmere superstore such as the M&S frame buildings steel larger-scale panels prefabricated The storage warehouses. other food and wine Port and they to site, though and transported near Abingdon made in a factory are system. as in the Modcell ‘flying factory’ anywhere could be made almost using as they are industry and house builders attractive to the construction of the great One with synthetic insulation products. similar techniques homoge- a continuous and lime is its ability to provide advantages of hemp for mem- airtightness, without any need with improved neous composite, achieve when timber so on. This will not be so easy to branes, tapes and the be joints of timber to timber losing will used as there frame panels are also have to be doubts about casting There hempcrete. continuity of the on trucks, bump- then transporting them long distances heavy panels and will the panel. No doubt these problems and possibly stressing ing around out. be ironed be used as hemp and lime construction site and this method continues to is adopted globally. Using wood fibre products and issues related and issues related products Using wood fibre to construction and components , RIBA a big Building National May 2012 pp. 40–49 , Vol. 25, Issue 5, May 2007, , Vol. in May 2012 featured both featured 2012 in May , BRE Press 2008 , BRE Press Design for Modular Construction RIBA Journal (CLG), London RIBA Journal RIBA ’. The suggestion seemed to be that, if they to be that, if they seemed ’. The suggestion Hemp Lime Construction Homebuilders Federation/CITB-Constructionskills, London Homebuilders Federation/CITB-Constructionskills, The Callcutt Review of Housebuilding Delivery, Department of Delivery, The Callcutt Review of Housebuilding The Labour Needs of Extra Housing Output: Can the Housebuilding The Labour Needs of Extra Housing Output: Climate Change and the Indoor Environment Construction Management and Economics , the focus was on visual and aesthetic issues rather than attempting visual and aesthetic issues rather than , the focus was on Taylor & Francis, not yet released Taylor Communities and Local Government energysavingtrust.org.uk/Professional-resources/Housing-professionals/ 2.3.12) Performance-evaluation-of-homes (viewed (October 2010) Surveyors London Royal Institute of Chartered Paper, domestic construction, on load-bearing masonry standard performance energy CI 39/3/663 Report Number 8 – Final Report 2010 Partners in Innovation Project: heat-pumps-is-contributing-to-underperformance-1789.aspx of construction futures of Construction: a critical review (2007), The Futures studies, (viewed 5.2.12) uk.com/RegisteredDetail/Detail?id=167 Industry Cope? pp.477–493 Mews www.jrf.org.uk/sites/files/jrf/low-carbon-housing-summary.pdf Elm Tree Ball, M. (2005) Building4change http://www.building4change.com/page.jsp?id=1120 Callcutt (2007), CIBSE (2005). http://www. http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ Saving Trust EST Energy of UK Housebuilding RICS Research Pan, (2012) The future Goodier C. and Wei D. Evaluating the impact of an enhanced Gorse, C., Johnston, D. and Miles-Shenton, (2012) http://www.greenwisebusiness.co.uk/news/poor-installation-of- Greenwise A.D.F. A.R.J. and Price, C.I., Soetanto, R., Austin, S.A., Dainty, C., Goodier, Harty, http://www.labc. http://www.labc.uk.com LABC Local Authority Building Control http://www.labcwarranty.co.uk LABC Warranty C.I. (2010), Lawson, M., Ogden, R. and Goodier, Swindon project are reviewed. The reviewed. are project Swindon to ‘ a reference apart from the RHP, mentioned but barely projects sustainable construc- long as innovative DECC … as money from chunk of adopted were tion techniques (viewed 13.2.12) Baumit (2012) http://www.limetechnology.co.uk/render.htm 12.2.12) (viewed BBA 2012 http://www.bbacerts.co.uk/ T. Bevan, R. and Woolley, (viewed 2.5.12) Heraklith (2012) http://www.heraklith.com/ Low Carbon Housing Lessons from York, Housing Trust JRF 2010, Joseph Rowntree J. (2012) Routes Back to Rurbania. Kucharek had enough money they needn’t have bothered with sustainable materials! with sustainable bothered have money they needn’t had enough not on Letchworth did (2012) and Kucharek on Swindon (2012) Young and did of using low impact natural materials the significance appreciate Kucharek the projects. the sustainability aims of not attempt to understand name right, calling it ‘ get NBT’s could not even Technologies’. He suggests that the costs were driven down by value engi- costs were He suggests that the Technologies’. (a synthetic to ‘Sto’ renders the case, and refers far from neering, which is only Baumit the scheme, whereas throughout system) polymer render Perhaps inevitably in the used. were lime based renders breathable Journal inaccurate Such sustainable intentions of the projects. to understand the materials. the cause of renewable fails to advance reporting References

Analysis of issues arising from the case studies 116 Using wood fibre products and issues related to construction and components 117 May 2012 pp 34–38 Lessons from Stamford Brook Brook Stamford Lessons from RIBA Journal , Leeds Metropolitan University , Leeds Metropolitan hemclad.htm (viewed 2.3.12) hemclad.htm htm php (viewed 2.3.12) for the Centre Gap between Designed and Real Performance Understanding the Built Environment Leeds Met (2012) http://www.leedsmet.ac.uk/as/cebe/index.htm Met (2012) Leeds http://www.limetechnology.co.uk/projects/project06.htm (2012a) Lime Technology http://www.limetechnology.co.uk/ – Hemclad System (2012b) Lime Technology http://www.natural-building.co.uk/lime_plaster_render_baumit_bayousan. NBT (2012) http://www.resistant.co.uk/downloads. Brochure Resistant Products Resistant (2012) http://www.rockpanel.co.uk/products/rockpanel+rockclad Rockpanel Rockclad and Miles-Shenton, D. (2012) Wingfield, J., Bell M., Stepping out of the Mainstream E. (2012) Young, 5. Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context

Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs (Brundtland 1987)

Why attitudes and policies affect the use of renewable materials

For those of us who have successfully used renewable, natural and low impact materials in buildings, the benefits seem self-evident. These materi- als can be easily used, rarely give any problems and provide a better solu- tion to building low energy, healthy buildings. However, this is not how most key actors within the construction industry and government appear to think. Official policies and personal prejudices coincide to make it very dif- ficult for renewable materials to become accepted. In order to understand this, it is necessary to critically review current policy thinking on sustainable construction and energy efficiency.

Climate change and energy efficiency targets

Most governments have committed themselves to reducing fossil fuel energy usage and carbon emissions around the world. Climate change summits come and go and politicians wring their hands but in practice few targets are met and lifestyle demands in both Western developed coun- tries and the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China (the BRIC countries) demand more and more energy and resources. The Brundtland principle, which remains one of the most elegant and simple statements of what needs to be done, came out of a United National Commission set up in 1983. Thirty years later it seems likely that we will still be compromising the needs of future generations. However, if we were to

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. What is carbon 119 ) 2 is part of the is part of the 2 , but they also create , but they also create 2 is only about 0.04% of the earth’s is only about 0.04% of the earth’s 2 Many of the energy intensive processes that we currently depend on to that we currently processes intensive Many of the energy low carbon and CO The misunderstanding about carbon, One of the biggest obstacles to this is the narrow view taken of the term taken of the term view to this is the narrow biggest obstacles One of the many other forms of pollution that further damage natural habitats and of pollution that further damage many other forms resources. emissions which many believe is a contributory cause of global warming. believe is a contributory cause emissions which many is not cen- taking place whether global warming is really The debate about on resource focused principle, which is much more tral to the Brundtland one is just energy whole. The fossil fuel we use to provide consumption as a As fuel and we have to safeguard. that resources of many crucial finite especially difficult, more used up, life becomes are other natural resources (Heinberg been elegantly explained by Heinberg people, as has for poorer 2007). and insulation, emit CO building materials create because carbon is one about ‘saving carbon’ is almost meaningless Talking and confusing use This careless elements on the planet. of the most prolific behaving as it distracts people from of language seems almost deliberate the dry weight of Carbon is an essential part of life; about half responsibly. and soils, which hold most of the is carbon. Wood all living organisms also act such as calcium carbonate, carbon and mineral resources, earth’s used inter- carbon is incorrectly the word However, as a carbon store. changeably with carbon dioxide (CO the term ‘low carbon’ has In the field of sustainable building atmosphere). be better to avoid it as it is misleading. become commonplace but it would it is into discussions in this book because it will inevitably creep However, are and ‘low energy’ debate. ‘Low impact’ used in the energy so frequently useful terms. more probably The argument materials. of advocating the use of renewable problem is still not easily understood by responsibly more about using resources to a the general public or policymakers. Considerable funding has gone investigating climate change, but much of wide range of organisations The climate change indus- this work focuses on climate impacts on nature. what try concentrates on what they call ‘adaptation’. They try to predict warnings of floods, with dire will happen to the climate in the future of the scared and changing ecosystems. As governments are droughts implications of these warnings, plenty of money is pumped into organisa- or enable ‘public engage- than ‘raise awareness’ tions that do little more ‘adaptation frameworks’ (Adaption Scotland 2012). Real ment’ or create that change practice in terms of making buildings cooler (if it is projects move towards greater use of renewable materials we would be nearer to nearer be we would materials renewable use of greater towards move the Brundtland aspirations. achieving to ‘saving carbon’ of referring shorthand The sloppy ‘carbon emissions’. fossil means. Burning really what this few people understand means that dioxide (CO leads to carbon energy to create anything else, fuel, or nearly What is carbon? ing In northern temperate or cold climates the main preoccupation is to In northern temperate or cold climates the main preoccupation is there prosperous Unfortunately as developing countries become more Similarly, organisations tasked with promoting low energy solutions to solutions low energy with promoting tasked organisations Similarly, our buildings into keeping we put significant levels of energy Today Government policies affecting the way we attempt to reduce energy con- energy attempt to reduce the way we Government policies affecting modified so frequently are sustainable, sumption and make buildings more them all. Some of to attempt to review in the UK that it seems a futile task the thinking in other countries around the work done in the UK also affects world so policy mistakes may be repeated. developments and in warmer coun- office keep people warm but in large overheating. buildings from tries the need is for cooling or to protect thinking in than heating but progressive energy Cooling can use even more traditional and vernacular archi- hotter countries has learned lessons from passive and natural systems (Roaf 2007). using tecture and lots of a tendency to adopt western building methods with concrete think consumption. In the UK, official energy glass and this leads to greater getting hotter) or warmer (if it is getting colder) are thin on the ground in in ground on the thin are colder) is getting (if it or warmer hotter) getting offering of case studies though a handful change sector, the climate website found on the UKCIP buildings can be guidance about superficial (UKCIP 2012). consumption issues. about resource equally muddled needs seem future carbon though the concept of zero even carbon targets They talk of zero usage but this energy trying to talk about zero They are has little meaning. some energy activity is always going to involve aim. Human is an unrealistic responsible use and only to use be to minimise energy use. The aim should solar power wind and water the sun, comes from As our energy sources. for- but it is often the most benign sources, are and possibly geothermal wind turbines is used to build amount of energy gotten that a considerable to heat pumps need electricity source panels. Ground or to make solar that resources solar energy stored are petrochemicals operate. Fossil fuel activities should be saved for those human being depleted and that are achieved by other means. vital and cannot be that are and building design these could warm or cool and yet with good insulation By say it could be zero. to to very low levels, but it is unrealistic be reduced act as a disin- targets carbon’, unrealistic and ‘zero energy’ talking of ‘zero However, efficiency. to energy the road centive to people to even set out on to a modest and consumption in all buildings the energy if we reduced be enormous. This can be done in achievably low level, the savings would by way than is usually offered affordable healthier and much more a safer, use. energy to achieve zero solutions that claim the advocates of extreme the in Chapter 7, but reviewed are approaches Some of these unrealistic serves as a useful example of where Pittenweem case study in the RHP saving, energy small operational doubled for a relatively capital costs are forms of construction. above that achieved by low impact Sustainable construction and energy policies energy Sustainable construction and

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 120 UK Code for Sustainable Homes 121 (GHA 2008) (HM Government 2009) In relation to new build construction, tighter standards in the form of more in the form of more tighter standards to new build construction, In relation So where developers are obliged to achieve CSH level 4, they are likely to obliged to achieve CSH level 4, they are developers are So where solution. … the specify electric heating, as the only practical, cost effective … means that the consequence of this for building fabric improvement than an equivalent gas heated efficient building will always be less energy source. building, whatever the energy Through the Climate Change Act, UK Government has committed itself to an itself to an Government has committed Change Act, UK the Climate Through based on 1990 lev- emissions by 2050 gas 80% cut in greenhouse ambitious a long-term legal first country in the world to adopt els; and becomes the a system of ‘five year’ carbon through emissions framework for reducing … the 2050 target towards a clear pathway budgets, providing as the Code for Regulations and enactments such stringent Building the pushing the industry towards driving forces major are Sustainable Homes construction. goal of low carbon Another criticism of the Code, from the Good Homes Alliance, is that it Another criticism of the Code, from The UK Government introduced the Code For Sustainable Homes in 2008, the Code For The UK Government introduced (Planning Portal 2012). The Eco-Homes rating system following a previous very demanding and 4–6 are 1–6. Codes code has a range of standards consum- resource expensive and, in the view of some, impractical require in the installations. Most of the projects energy ing micro-renewable for Code Level 4 and in order (RHP) aimed Renewable House Programme and other energy renewable on more to achieve this spent considerably on insulation. Construction materials mechanical equipment than they did code require- of the only a minor proportion and fabric insulation represent with the Code with only modest ments and so it is still possible to comply criticised both from The Code has been repeatedly insulation standards. house building the mainstream for its flaws, and from lobby, the green Royal Academy of to the According industry who thought it was too costly. Engineering in their criticisms, the Code ‘leads to unnecessarily expensive buildings’ (RAE 2010). over fuels and heating systems (May 2008). is far too prescriptive It would take another book to explain the many failings of this and similar book to explain the many failings It would take another has contin- Conservative Liberal Alliance Government strategies. The UK Labour Governments of 1997–2007 ued with many of the policies of the to cutting greenhouse always refers and 2007–2010 and political rhetoric policy is the Code for in recent gas emissions. One of the main planks in the business as ‘The Code’. Sustainable Homes, generally known rarely learns lessons from traditional and vernacular architecture and is and architecture and vernacular traditional from lessons learns rarely and legisla- (MMC) methods of construction’ on ‘modern instead focused be met. which will never most of a range of targets, tion with UK Code for Sustainable Homes (Gorse 2010) (Construction Enquirer 2012) (Construction Enquirer Speaking at the Zero Carbon Hub annual conference, Home Builders Carbon Hub annual conference, Speaking at the Zero In all the case studies the designer and builder failed to produce low carbon In all the case studies the designer and builder failed to produce The industry is not meeting their targets. buildings specified … buildings are understanding of attempting to develop low carbon buildings without a real and the performance of components used. … the the construction process will work is buildings together and hoping they of throwing approach current buildings. sub-standard producing Senior figures in the house building industry have called for proposed changes to changes industry have called for proposed in the house building Senior figures delayed. The Government is aiming topart L of the Building Regulations to be 2013 by chang- October on homes from impose stricter carbon emissions targets the testing tool for that But industry experts have argued ing the building regs. to proceed. and flawed known as SAP is too unreliable performance energy ‘Given the demanding standards Federation chief Stewart Baseley said: carbon policy it is essential that we have a model of SAP entailed in the zero in an invid- fit for purpose. Without this, builders are that is fully and properly they believe should deliver the ious position in having to design buildings no fault of that possibly through necessary performance, but discovering was predicted.’ their own, actual performance is not what Professor Chris Gorse and his colleagues at Leeds Metropolitan University Metropolitan Chris Gorse and his colleagues at Leeds Professor The danger of systems like the Code is that there is far too much focus far too much focus is there the Code is that of systems like The danger This is not entirely fair to builders because very often it is the design and This is not entirely construction system that is at fault, with MMC using synthetic, Institutions such as Leeds Metropolitan University Centre for the Built Centre University Institutions such as Leeds Metropolitan often fail to achieve for some years that houses have argued Environment A landmark predicted. that were standards efficiency in practice the energy very made these problems in Cheshire Brook at Stamford project research have the tick box tools of the Code and other measures However, clear. work (Leeds Met 2012). of this failed to take into account the results practice and due to poor construction largely are say that these problems technologies they have been given. builders failing to understand the new Despite these criticisms, the Code is becoming increasingly adopted as a as adopted increasingly is becoming the Code criticisms, these Despite was only Initially the Code requirement. planning permission compulsory has made it a Assembly but the Welsh public sector housing applied to or social. new housing, private for all compliance requirement planning has scrapped it. on the other hand, Ireland, Northern changes and not enough on real box exercises, and tick on paper regulation that have ensured and design. While the Code would to building practice than efficient energy more built in the past 5 years are many new houses efficiency the energy been, the checks to see whether they might have use predic- based on energy The Code is poor. very are works in practice much criticism from SAP and SBEM, which have attracted tion tools such as are The flaws in these tools industry. and the construction professionals 6. detail in Chapter in more explored

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 122 New planning policy framework 123 (Davis 2008) (DCLG 2012) . (emphasis added) failure to maintain the failure Development means growth . (emphasis added) Sustainable means ensuring that better lives for ourselves don’t mean worse lives for ourselves don’t Sustainable means ensuring that better generations. lives for future The level of knowledge and understanding among the industry is variable: and understanding among the industry The level of knowledge building regulations that homes built to current identified only 15% correctly of Code Level 1, with 65% believing that requirements do not even meet the achieve Code Level 1 or above. already building currently the homes they are have serious concerns about that many house builders reveals The research technologies can deliver energy and renewable generation whether micro Code. … of the generation requirements the energy new systems and technologies adequately may expose homeowners to health adequately may expose homeowners new systems and technologies and safety risks In research for the NHBC, in 2008, Davis and Harvey warned of the seri- Harvey warned in 2008, Davis and for the NHBC, In research The Zero Carbon Hub, referred to in the previous chapter, set up to advise chapter, to in the previous Carbon Hub, referred The Zero carbon’ building, has government and the industry on how to achieve ‘zero design. failed to get to grips with many of the issues involved in low energy is In July 2010, housing minister Grant Shapps stated, ‘This government carbon.’ committed to ensuring that all new homes post-2016 can be zero Hub 2012). Carbon (Zero As work was being completed on this book, the UK Tory Liberal Alliance this book, the UK Tory As work was being completed on policy framework which was Government announced a new planning of complicated planning policy guid- intended to strip away 1000 pages was to make development of it with 50 pages. The aim ance and replace easier. new housing (and other buildings) so often that it ceases to have ‘sustainable’ is used In this document the word and business issues rather to do with economic any meaning, but it is largely to comply with required developments are issues. Future than environmental was made attempt carbon homes policy but no real zero the Government’s other than in the vaguest of terms. Anto define sustainable development, opportunity to embrace low impact development has been missed. high-embodied energy, prefabricated systems that are unlikely achieve the achieve unlikely are that systems prefabricated energy, high-embodied predicted. that are targets policy has placed despite this, UK Government’s in the Code, but ous flaws on and less energy on micro-renewable emphasis and greater greater the to tinker with this they have had to justify fabric. In order building carbon’. concept of ‘zero The zero carbon myth The zero New planning policy framework

zero (Monbiot 2011) Zero Carbon Homes – A Zero emissions during operation’ 2 and Carbon doesn’t mean car- and Carbon doesn’t zero Carbon Compliance: What is the appro- What Carbon Compliance: (UK GBC 2012). (UK GBC emissions produced during construction, nor do they during construction, emissions produced 2 Carbon doesn’t mean Carbon doesn’t Zero , Jo Williams of University College London, sets out what she , Jo Williams of University College If the answer is ‘a’, you are an ordinary mortal. If the answer is ‘b’, you are mortal. If the answer is ‘b’, you are an ordinary you are If the answer is ‘a’, Shapps has as ‘56%-carbon homes’, his target So, rather than redefining the Zero Carbon Hub has just published its consultation document, in which published its consultation document, Carbon Hub has just the Zero by as home’ is one that ‘has cut its emissions carbon it explains that a ‘zero What does the 2006 building regulations’. with little as 44% compared look like to you? Is it: look like to you? Is or a. 0 b. 56%? powers. It possessed of supernatural mathematical a government minister, – defined by the government as 30% been had previously explains that zero by 70% against would have to cut their emissions meaning that new homes this variety of that reaching 2006 levels. But the government had recognised challenging and may not be achievable in all cases’. is particularly zero mathematically challenging, though politically effective, taken the more zero. option of redefining The Williams book focuses almost entirely on forms of renewable energy energy on forms of renewable The Williams book focuses almost entirely Shapps announced that he had commissioned work from the Zero Zero the from work commissioned he had that announced Shapps is energy or even zero-net carbon Williams admits that ‘terms like zero According to George Monbiot, writing in the Guardian newspaper, Guardian writing in the Monbiot, to George According (Williams 2012) even though this aim is unlikely to be achieved in the pro- (Williams 2012) even though this aim is unlikely to be achieved in the meaning 56%. another example of zero jects she cites – presumably the fabric and materials from generation and planning policies and ignores a brief mention of the constructed. Apart from which the buildings are is no information about building fabric costs of insulation in Germany there This myopic might be reduced. or insulation and how embodied energy factor in embodied energy consumption. She even admits that the total factor in embodied energy over the life cycle of a building is not fully consid- consumption of energy carbon home is she adopts the flawed definition that a zero So ered. ‘A home CO zero-net are which there from Given that Carbon Hub, to work out how new homes could built to zero carbon stand- built to zero new homes could to work out how Carbon Hub, your say’ set out in the ‘Have This work is fashion. in a ‘realistic’ ards Note Event Briefing Consultation Road Map Despite stating that the carbon housing models’. calls ‘a series of zero solutions’ for behind the book sought to determine ‘technical research almost nothing in 373 pages carbon homes, it contains delivering zero or what they might be built carbon homes might be built about how zero out of. include the energy don’t the standards misleading’. She also points out that consumed or CO priate level for 2016? priate level industry does not really surprising that the house building bon, it is hardly the prevent this doesn’t housing means. However, know what low energy in the title of what might look term being widely used and even appearing For instance, in like authoritative academic books.

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 124 The carbon spike concept 125 . (Bullock 2009) emissions in developed emissions in developed 2 in building materials is dis- in building materials , that by using materials and 2 emissions are created in the process in the process created emissions are 2 carbon profiling an approach that allows people in rich countries to that allows people in rich countries to an approach this may be offset by using low impact materials, for instance. The low impact materials, for instance. by using this may be offset 2 carry on in developing countries unfair reductions polluting while requiring (emphasis added) ‘… offsetting does not work and will not work. Offsetting does not lead to does not work and will not work. Offsetting ‘… offsetting additional emissions cuts in developing countries; it delays essen- promised economies; and it institutionalises tial structural change in developed-country the south, when science demands the idea of cuts in either the north or in both … reductions The term ‘carbon neutral’ might be a better term than ‘zero carbon’. carbon’. term than ‘zero might be a better ‘carbon neutral’ The term countries as is pointed out by Friends of the Earth: countries as is pointed out by Friends construction methods and energy solutions that have a high embodied construction methods and energy that was the energy unlikely to offset savings are long-term energy energy, the building and technologies. As many believe that used initially to create with an imminent crisis of global warming and peak oil, it faced we are fossil fuel consumption in the immediate would seem logical to reduce synthetic insulation term. Those who advocate using fossil fuel to create of creating so-called zero or low energy buildings, the energy that will buildings, the energy or low energy so-called zero of creating if allegedly be saved during the life of the building, becomes of little value the buildings in the first creating that energy squandered we have already place. It can be shown through potential for this in terms of sequestering CO potential for this If zero carbon is only seen in terms of energy generation and energy in use, and energy generation carbon is only seen in terms of energy If zero value of natural, the energy, discounting the importance of embodied booted to the sidelines and and low impact materials is easily renewable to In order advocates. energy by government policy and zero ignored hemp and fibre, wood with timber, understand the importance of building back on the agenda. By energy similar materials we have to get embodied ignoring the fact that significant CO view of ‘zero carbon housing’ is shared across government and the housing housing and the government across shared is carbon housing’ of ‘zero view renewa- spent on hi-tech being are of money and huge amounts industry, insulation and expense of improving systems at the generation ble energy fabric standards. at the com- looking holistically involves in its best definition Carbon neutral be emitting While a building may still of a project. plete emissions impact CO largely term carbon neutral has been Unfortunately the cussed below. can be bought Carbon credits industry. offsetting devalued by the carbon and many compa- of financial trading and speculation, and sold as a form cannot be to businesses who up to sell carbon credits nies have been set these The money they pay for their own emissions. to reduce bothered in developing countries or with farmers projects is then invested in credits is that it is a of carbon offsetting The failure planting woodland. who are CO for reducing responsibility way of avoiding The carbon spike concept . emissions from emissions from 2 (Heinonen 2011) (McCloud 2011a) emissions from building emissions from 2 ’ problem. Heinonen and his colleagues at Aalto at Aalto and his colleagues Heinonen ’ problem. the construction phase emissions can hinder or even the construction phase carbon spike …we demonstrate that when the temporal allocation of the emissions is that when the temporal allocation of …we demonstrate …people get obsessed by the idea, for example, of using natural insulating …people get obsessed by the idea, for when actually what is range’ (sic) floorboarding, ‘free materials and recycled consumption. fundamental about buildings in the long term is their energy with impact of what you use is as nothing when compared The environmental impact of the building in use… the environmental (emphasis added) … the construction phase causes a significant carbon spike to the per capita phase causes a significant carbon spike … the construction time in the with a potentially very long carbon payback carbon consumption, would efficiency, though with weaker energy existing buildings, case where have been available. taken into account, for decades of low-carbon buildings the carbon mitigation effect reverse If projects were analysed following the Aalto University methods, a very analysed following the Aalto University were If projects An important study carried out at Aalto University in Finland defines this in Finland out at Aalto University study carried An important development in the area. They showed that there is a short- and middle- They showed that there area. development in the emis- carbon on the building-related of construction term negative effect of the buildings. efficiency higher energy sions despite the Despite being responsible for one of the best projects in the RHP, in in in the RHP, for one of the best projects Despite being responsible so Swindon and an advocate of hemp construction, Kevin McCloud, like film that operational many others, suggested in a short promotional impact of what important than the environmental far more is energy when asked about this he said, use for construction. However, you energy materials ‘If we can accommodate carbon positive, local, source-meagre They considered a 25-year life of buildings in their study as they argued in their study as they argued a 25-year life of buildings They considered would be carried out normally works that in Finland, further renovation would be expended). In the energy after 25 years (and so further embodied life, thus appear- usually based on a 60-year savings are UK, energy-in-use the Finnish However, energy. the significance of embodied ing to reduce used the energy in that it shows how significant realistic study is much more is. at the start of the project attention and far more carbon’ would emerge, of ‘zero picture different CO the and reducing would be paid to embodied energy and other materials, however, fail to understand this and only talk about only talk this and to understand fail however, other materials, and or 50 years’ time. saved in 30 energy as the ‘ University measured the construction phase emissions and the embodied and the embodied phase emissions the construction measured University of Helsinki, case study area materials in a of the building emissions calculated the CO carefully Pellaksenmäki. They the construction methods and materials. Energy in use or ‘operational energy’ is all that matters to many is all that in use or ‘operational energy’ Energy

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 126 Energy in use or ‘operational energy’ is all that matters to many 127 ’ (emphasis ’ (emphasis – the initial not one single emissions, we are emissions, we are 2 carbon spike what ever harm it does to the environ- harm it does to what ever but these are second-step choices second-step are but these emissions. Using timber frame instead of masonry is emissions. Using timber frame instead 2 insulation is insulation insulation . Interestingly this report also says nothing about natural and this report . Interestingly , not in 50 or 60 years’ time, and thus the , not in 50 or 60 years’ now Synthetic insulations, made from a range of petrochemical sources or sources of petrochemical a range Synthetic insulations, made from that these materials is some evidence What is even worse is that there publication Surveyors (RICS) research In a Royal Institute of Chartered If, as is currently happening, we install insulation in buildings, using mate- happening, we install insulation If, as is currently McCloud’s view of using low impact materials as a second step choice is step choice is as a second low impact materials view of using McCloud’s actually making the problem worse not better (the carbon spike problem). (the carbon spike problem). worse not better actually making the problem embod- also hugely increase and plastics Other materials such as concrete and CO ied energy another important way of reducing embodied energy. embodied another important way of reducing materials These in manufacture. use a lot of energy material such as rock, in which retardants, and fire also combined with a range of binders are create and may fossil fuel resources synthesised from themselves are production the planet. By ramping up the across serious pollution problems and other materials glass fibre insulations, synthetic foams, of rock-based in materials may save energy making a serious mistake. While these we are further damage, as few can be recycled the long term, they will also cause and will end up as toxic landfill. claimed to be. So-called as they are and efficient nothing like as effective are performing as many seem to not as high ‘high performance’ insulations are on health and building a bad effect think. Such materials can also have and some of them may not perform as well over the life of the durability, building. Such criticisms would be pointless if we did not have much better natural, low impact and available from alternatives, but the alternatives are than conven- to produce materials which use much less energy renewable by is some evidence of how this is ignored tional synthetic materials. Here many ‘experts’ on sustainable housing and building. Pan, in December 2010, setting out ‘The Future written by Goodier and Wei is expounded at efficiency of UK Housebuilding’ the concept of energy is not mentioned at all – but embodied energy length, great reference carbon expended – is almost more important than the operational energy energy important than the operational – is almost more carbon expended second step choices. far from in buildings. These are CO adding to that are rials based on petrochemicals added). (McCloud 2011b). added). (McCloud is an There efficiency. energy who advocate view among those a typical attitude that and the general construction industry the professionals, ment. Convincing For years is not an easy task. of embodied energy public of the importance effi- and energy activists in the sustainable building many of the leading efficiency energy through that saving energy argued ciency world have They are of a building is the only game in town. over the lifetime measured a tiny fraction used to make such savings is only energy adamant that the that argue saved in the long run. Thus they that can be of the energy disregarded. important and can be largely is not embodied energy and is that the most urgent advanced in this book the argument However, we and resources the energy humanity is to reduce important task facing use along the way, all the better, the better, all the way, along in minimising energy in minimising energy . (emphasis added) energy in use would overtake embodied energy in a in use would overtake embodied energy energy . Assuming the house had a life of 60 years before requir- before . Assuming the house had a life of 60 years The obvious conclusion from this example is that, The obvious conclusion from Diagram 1 (Figure 5.1) that, even with the maxi- illustrates this and shows As a general rule, the embodied energy of a given building will be overtaken As a general rule, the embodied energy life. For example, the in use fairly early in the building’s by the energy Establishment (BRE) estimated in 1991 that, for a typical Building Research 3-bed detached house, period of 2–5 years (which is the minimum stipulated for new build by ing major refurbishment in use would exceed the embodied the Housing Corporation), the energy 12–30 times. by energy of only 60 years, embodied energy mum 5-year ‘overtaking time’ and a life use of the building. If the energy accounts for only about 10% of the lifetime typical 100 lower and the lifetime of the house a more overtaking time were than embod- significant in use would be 40–50 times more years, then energy only 2–2.5% of total would account for (i.e. embodied energy ied energy (Figure 5.2) consumption). energy in use is far energy reducing consumption over the lifetime of a building, than minimising embodied energy effective more Many experts have continued to repeat the energy-in-use mantra that the energy-in-use Many experts have continued to repeat Instead Goodier and his colleague Wei Pan are excited about recent high- about recent excited are Pan Wei and his colleague Instead Goodier The authors of this publication do go on to state that embodied energy in on to state that embodied energy The authors of this publication do go to lifetime significant in proportion houses would be more efficient energy but that this assumption is based on unpublished ‘research’ costs energy like Establishment. This ‘unpublished research’, Building Research the from refer- much other work done at the BRE, has not been published in proper dia- eed scientific journals, so it cannot be challenged or scrutinised. These the In the Finnish research the carbon spike problem. ignore grams entirely carbon spike can be seen at the beginning of the graph (Figure 5.3) and use is not compensated for by any savings in operational energy. this energy and this seems significant than embodied energy, is more lifetime energy the enthusiasm in years through in recent strength greater to have received the UK and USA for the German passiv haus movement. The UK ‘Sustainable The ground rules for ignoring – or at least discounting the importance of – – or at least discounting the importance rules for ignoring The ground in a Sustainable Housing Publication set out in were embodied energy (Sustainable as it sets out the fallacy very clearly. here 1999, quoted at length this document.) two diagrams from to reproduce Housing gave permission renewable materials, indeed the only innovative material mentioned is one is one mentioned material only innovative indeed the materials, renewable (Goodier 2010). plastic. using recycled of in terms and unproven unrealistic completely that are tech innovations com- same time, they at the construction; use in mainstream cost or practical impact mate- low achievable renewable major advances in the pletely ignore and learn building materials that mimic will introduce rials. ‘…biomimetics 2010) know no bounds’. (Goodier and limits of nanotechnology nature, from How embodied energy is discounted energy How embodied

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 128 How embodied energy is discounted 129 con- Energy in use Total energy Energy in use Embodied energy Embodied energy Years Years Total energy

. Of course it is perfectly possible to build a ‘passiv

Energy consumption Energy 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 40 45 50 55 60 Energy consumption Energy 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 40 45 50 55 60 Energy Consumption for a low energy house (Sustainable Homes) Consumption for a low energy Energy Energy consumption for a typical three-bedroom house (Sustainable Homes) consumption for a typical three-bedroom Energy 0 0 scious or responsible shown in haus’ using natural and low impact materials, and examples are Chapter 7. Figure 5.2 Figure Building Association’ (AECB), once a champion of low impact construction in use and has aban- with energy preoccupied methods, now seems largely AECB was based on the name of the The acronym doned its holistic roots. Conscious Building’, but the ‘Association for Environmentally organisation, conscious, as much of environmentally the words they have now dropped to defend as environmentally what they now advocate would be hard Figure 5.1 Figure 24 , Oreszczyn and Lowe , Oreszczyn No new construction Assessment for Low Carbon Design’ 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 Years Construction Whole Life energy efficient buildings efficient energy in the production and transportation of materials, in the production 2 Use phase Despite uncertainties, the broad distinctions between high- and low-embodied Despite uncertainties, the broad available data. An identical design emissions design can be established from At the 2011 AECB conference, in Nottingham, a draft policy document a draft policy document in Nottingham, At the 2011 AECB conference, to the House When giving evidence have a similar view. Other key figures Another AECB stalwart, Willoughby, in a presentation also titled ‘Less is in a presentation Another AECB stalwart, Willoughby, they do not suggest that this could be reduced by using low impact mate- they do not suggest that this could be reduced and designers is very confusing rials. The guidance they give to architects on this issue. ‘Less is More’ was presented by Simmonds and Olivier. Olivier has been Olivier has been by Simmonds and Olivier. was presented ‘Less is More’ for efficiency advocate of energy an important and highly influential his through However, internationally. many years both in the UK and a critic of the con- Advisory Associates, he has been Energy company, natural materials discussed walls (a crucial issue for cept of breathing (AECB presentation ‘Less is More’ later) (Olivier 1999). In the 2011 AECB issue of embodied the ignored 2012), Olivier and Simmonds entirely building fabric and touched on insulation, indeed, they barely energy; materials. in 2005 about of Lords ignored the issue of materials or embodied energy. The word insulation insulation The word energy. the issue of materials or embodied ignored appear to take the line that energy only appears once in the text as they 2005). is about building services (Oreszczyn efficiency and energy embodied ignores given at the 2010 AECB conference, More’, who is and materials. Rickaby, says almost nothing about fabric insulation building to the RIBA, and one of the main advisors on sustainable for the RIBA. Booklet 8 of Climate Change Toolkit Willoughby produced Even though this is titled ‘ insulation only appears twice in its 20 pages. While (my emphasis) the word talking this document does at least mention the issue of embodied energy about embodied CO 123456789101112

Total emissions of the residential area during the 25 year lifecycle showing the carbon spike during the 25 year lifecycle showing the area residential emissions of the Total

2 0 Tons CO Tons –eqv. 0 50,000 Figure 5.3 5.3 Figure et al 2011) Heinonen (from 250,000 200,000 150,000 100,000

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 130 How embodied energy is discounted 131

2 (RIBA undated) (RIBA undated) (Eisenberg 2011) (Eisenberg -intensive but cheap 2 , not something that would real- , not something that emissions but low cost; whereas ele- emissions but low cost; whereas 2 thatching continually until the last few years, not those of us involved continually until the last few years, not emissions but high cost. 2 it was the energy efficiency folks who dismissed the importance of folks who dismissed the importance efficiency it was the energy ments that are labour-intensive and use renewable materials, like thatching, materials, and use renewable labour-intensive ments that are have low CO emissions, due to factors such as the sourcing of materials and construction and construction of materials as the sourcing due to factors such emissions, but over control the designer’s usually seen as outside that are methods base your deci- should You significant influence. designer can have which the and not emissions data about embodied on the best available sion-making of data uncertainties. give up because materials, like cement, have high CO as a long time proponent of the importance of embodied energy here in the here of the importance of embodied energy as a long time proponent US, … embodied energy was that if you compared Their argument the built environment. in greening was you would see that embodied energy operating and embodied energy, talking about a significant num- was that we were insignificant. My argument did not of the embodied energy but the size ber dwarfed by a huge number, was not important, just that it was made to mean that the embodied energy (emphasis added) look insignificant by the size of the operating energy. For example, elements with large quantities of CO For example, elements with large built in different ways in different places will have varying embodied CO embodied varying will have places in different ways in different built David Eisenberg, a well-respected authority on green building in the building authority on green a well-respected David Eisenberg, It is hard to understand why campaigners and academics, who discount It is hard emissions we to reduce that in order not appreciate do embodied energy, not just how we heat and light our of activity, have to do so in all areas the buildings. They seem complacent about the damage being done to intensive insulation materials of energy by the manufacturers environment The RIBA toolkit refers to available data on embodied emissions. Their to available data The RIBA toolkit refers published by Bath is the ICE database of data on embodied energy source The data it contains has not necessar- University as discussed in Chapter 1. in many cases, has been drawn from ily been independently verified and, who have a vested inter- companies information published by commercial their materials (Bath 2012). est in promoting USA has written istically be considered for main-stream projects. main-stream for istically be considered Ironically the RIBA Toolkit Booklet 8 uses a picture on its cover of a hemp- picture Booklet 8 uses a the RIBA Toolkit Ironically of without giving any details Elmswell in Suffolk housing scheme at crete that They admit of this project. and low impact nature the highly innovative sustainable strategies for con- combines housing project ‘The affordable not mention use and landscape’ but they do energy struction, lifetime leaving or low impact materials in the toolkit, renewable hemp or the use of confined to high cost and are materials that renewable the impression such as labour intensive methods

2 2 (RICS 2010) emissions. They 2 sions – and other pollution and damage – much more quickly than in quickly than in more and damage – much other pollution sions – and In the case of office buildings, currently some 40–50% of the whole life car- some 40–50% buildings, currently In the case of office will be due to embodied carbon bon costs of a typical new development oper- requiring due to legislation is set to increase emissions. This proportion a is, however, There by 2019. to zero ational carbon emissions to be reduced of adversely will have the unintended consequence danger that this pressure carbon- increasingly the use of embodied emissions, by requiring affecting operational carbon emissions. to zero intensive solutions, the closer we get between the underlying embodied and the Understanding the relationship to when allocating any resources operational carbon emissions is essential the physical measures that emissions overall, as it is crucial to ensure reducing operational carbon usage use less carbon than they save. In taken to reduce embodied emissions reducing financial point of view, a purely addition, from operational emissions. than reducing effective design can be more through Thus the mainstream world of commercial office development has recog- office world of commercial Thus the mainstream illustrate this with real life case studies based on commercial office devel- office on commercial life case studies based illustrate this with real be as high as can that embodied energy and they argue opment projects buildings. efficient consumption of energy the lifetime energy Sturgis provides a ‘carbon profiling’ service so that clients can make a holis- service so that clients can a ‘carbon profiling’ provides Sturgis taking into account all CO proposals, tic assessment of their buildings and emissions. It is ironic that such a sensible and logical appraisal of the impor- emissions. It is ironic to pressures should be driven by commercial tance of embodied energy campaigners remain ‘green’ buildings, whereas office save money on large issues. fixated on operational energy as it makes good financial sense nised the importance of embodied energy benefits. Companies can genuinely claim in as well as having environmental their reducing statements that they are their corporate social responsibility as well as by using lower impact and renovation carbon footprint by reuse and there however, in its infancy, materials. Carbon footprinting remains Data used in the calculations methodologies or standards. no agreed are An important study published by the RICS, based on work by Sturgis on work by Sturgis published by the RICS, based An important study the carbon footprint sets out a basis for working out Associates (RICS 2010) make a strong Sturgis carbon impact of building works. of buildings and the advice to of existing buildings in their and conversion case for the reuse to demolish the past, developers would tend developers. In commercial but higher rentals, build anew as they could achieve old buildings and based on saving money due to convincing arguments put forward Sturgis and thus CO embodied energy the the value of reducing and renewable energy equipment even though this will produce CO will produce this though even equipment energy renewable and emis the next 60 years. gas or oil over run using too much are houses that coming from energy in embodied with interest tide is turning, the However, world. development property the commercial quarter, an unexpected Carbon footprinting

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 132 Passive design approaches 133

active is in is in 2 (De Selincourt 2012) . This has been hijacked passive It is cumulative carbon dioxide emissions, over time, that drive climate that drive climate dioxide emissions, over time, It is cumulative carbon CO the time the postpone emissions, we reduce change. If we can the atmosphere, and therefore reduce the harm done. If, as is widely done. If, as is widely the harm reduce and therefore the atmosphere, fend off desperate window of opportunity to in the last believed, we are emis- to reduce point’ it is especially important a climate change ‘tipping embodied emissions which, of course, is where time – sions in the present concentrated. are At one time, passive design was well understood by eco designers. Using At one time, passive design was well However, the inherent holistic nature of carbon footprinting is valuable footprinting of carbon nature holistic the inherent However, If carbon counting, profiling and embodied energy are to become more to become more are and embodied energy If carbon counting, profiling materials. important, this may give an advantage to natural and renewable timber composites, It seems self evident that building materials like timber, mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system and other mechanical sys- system mechanical ventilation and heat recovery the value of passive solar gain was welltems. In the early days of eco design, overlooked. Instead, embodied understood, but this has been increasingly operational of reduced being pushed up in the pursuit costs are energy dependence on technological solutions. the growing through energy, equip- energy on government to subsidise renewable pressure Commercial is distorting measures, use of mechanical ventilation ment, and the growing low impact solutions. The use of passiveour understanding of how to achieve even though these can be much seems to be slipping out of fashion measures the and implement. Indeed, to produce and use far less energy effective more and even north on flat roofs use of expensive photovoltaic panels increasing indicates a lack of understanding and badly placed solar shading, facing roofs, of even the most basic principles. and thermal mass together with simple solar gain, with adequate shading aside in natural ventilation and passive stack solutions has been thrown many excellent guides to passive are There favour of ‘techy’ approaches. can be solar heating and cooling (e.g. Chiras 2002) and these measures with natural and low impact materials. used effectively A key issue in this debate is to reclaim the word the word A key issue in this debate is to reclaim highly a houses require even though passive by the passiv haus industry, such as about embodied energy from LCAs and EPDS may be flawed, and and be flawed, EPDS may LCAs and from energy embodied as about such the footprint analysis. of the credibility this can undermine embod- an acceptance that It will lead to widely. be used more and should used to construct of materials impact and the environmental ied energy of advocates The failure as operational energy. is just as important buildings is criticised by De Selincourt in housing and building efficiency of energy explains that as a ‘ticking time bomb’. She Energy who describes Embodied Do natural and renewable materials have lower embodied energy? Do natural and renewable Passive design approaches Probably the lowest impact is for buildings that use materials har- is for buildings that use materials the lowest impact Probably with have run into problems Self builders of unconventional houses con- for mainstream produced materials that are Natural and renewable a careful of any product to determine the embodied energy In order ‘guestimates’, are of embodied energy In practice most published figures hemp, straw and sheep’s wool will use less energy in manufacture as there there as in manufacture energy use less wool will and sheep’s straw hemp, resources. lower use of petrochemical and much processing is far less and steel, synthetic insulations concrete, from constructed mainly Buildings as there just However, energy. higher embodied will have plastic materials – even natural any building materials hardly carbon buildings, no zero are carbon a zero you they have Anyone who tells carbon. zero ones – are disingenuous. being is probably building or product on the site, thatch cob house built with mud dug up vested on site. A thinnings uses local forest field, and wood from a nearby and straw from good exam- are the builders. There only the labour of almost no energy, can be a viable and reason- 2006) and this (Woolley ple of such buildings in the countryside. though limited to self-builders able way to build, (mudandwood 2012) advocates and practitioners many current are There in British However, that can be found locally. using natural materials within 100 as coming from considered materials are Columbia, local miles! (Boyer 2012). the Government has recognised planning permission, though the Welsh (LID) which has made it possible value of such ‘low impact development’ life style by running self-suffi- for people who want to live an ecological permission for developments that cient small holdings, to get planning have been there 2012). However, would not normally be allowed (Wales such as approval further obstacles with gaining building regulations more (Dale 2011). at the Lammas Project, as considered be and can rarely to produce struction do use some energy machines and reap, farm machinery to sow local materials. Hemp requires Hemp is transported the shiv. from used to separate the hemp fibre are second trip for manu- factory and may even do a farm to processing from may use local timber products fibre facturing into insulation quilt. Wood wool must travel distance. Sheep’s but it may still be transported some All materials factory and for manufacturing. the farm to a processing from or direct to builders’ merchants then involve packaging and transportation It is important to necessarily. locally but not to site. Straw may be sourced transport from some embodied energy be honest that these materials have in particular. cradle to cradle or cradle to gate used from analysis must be done. Energy known as boundary conditions) can be calculated, and often (these are boundary conditions. In an ideal environmen- based on different are figures for all products, world this would be a legal requirement tally responsible published on the packaging. published by manufacturers, figures based on assumptions or derived from advised to strongly are which have not been independently verified. You with a pinch of salt whether for natural or syn- published figures any treat can be highly misleading as flax insulation thetic materials. Generic figures

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 134 Do natural and renewable materials have lower embodied energy 135 /kg 2 kgCO Embodied carbon Embodied MJ/kg Examples of embodied energy figures of embodied energy Examples Based on Inventory of Carbon and Energy (ICE) 2011 and Energy Inventory of Carbon Based on Typical but questionable embodied energy figures energy embodied but questionable Typical In a detailed analysis of the embodied energy of a concrete paving slab, of a concrete energy In a detailed analysis of the embodied at in isolation. The when looked can also seem baffling Such figures so in theory it is The Bath ICE database is exhaustively referenced, polyurethane foam rigid insulationpolyurethane 101.5 3.48 straw 0.24 0.01 flax 33.5 1.7 wool recycled 20.9 NA rock woolrock 16.8 1.05 glasswool 28 1.54 Portland cement 5.50 0.93 aluminium (general) 155 8.24 Materials energy Embodied aggregates 0.083 0.0048 produced in France may use more energy than that used in Denmark or than that used energy in France may use more produced in Switzerland may made analysis of a product Holland. An environmental mainly uses nuclear power, costs as Switzerland have assumed high energy plant a wood waste CHP was supplied from the energy in reality whereas on site. was used by their work- much petrol everything was counted including how 2009). It their sandwiches! (Richardson ers driving out at lunchtime to get in terms of figures energy embodied can also be misleading to compare insulation mate- A lightweight published per kilogram, such as in Table 5.1. but when multiplied by energy rial may appear to have a high embodied much less than a heavyweight material the weight used, the total impact is is little doubt that there Yet energy. that might have a lower embodied often make such simplistic comparisons. professionals than energy uses far more aggregates quarry extraction and crushing of deal of that a great but if it is assumed the harvesting and baling of straw, depending on can push up the figure synthetic fertiliser had been used, this for general only useful really are figures who is making the calculation. Such comparisons. of information, but it is unlikely that most possible to trace the sources unlikely to users of the database will do this. Thus, for example, they are see the flaws in the 2004 analysis of flax insulation that gives a distort- for flax as discussed in Chapter 1 (Schmidt, 2004). edly high figure A more (Allen can be seen in Table 5.2 comparison of figures realistic for the source 2004). It was worrying to find that some of the references Building Handbook the Green from of information in the ICE database are as an authori- and Kimmins 1997). This should not be regarded (Woolley as this information was in itself on embodied energy tative source Table 5.1 5.1 Table

2 , or in this case gigajoules. 2 or per m 3 when growing. Plants and trees absorb CO Plants and trees when growing. 2 Embodied energy of different building elements derived from various various from derived building elements of different energy Embodied : Allen 2004 as they have absorbed CO as also able to lock up footprint, most natural bio-based materials are 2 2 We have a long way to go before we can provide firm and independently we can provide have a long way to go before We carbon’ is that of sequestration. In addition to generally having a lower carbon’ is that of sequestration. In addition to generally having a lower CO Thus such a list is only useful for comparison purposes. Thus such a list is only useful for comparison Source from the atmosphere and convert it into oxygen, a vital process for the it into oxygen, a vital process and convert the atmosphere from A further factor to take into account when unravelling the discussion of A further factor to take into account when unravelling the discussion ‘ CO derived from other secondary sources, and many years ago, when such years ago, when such and many other secondary sources, derived from check. On the other hand, to obtain and to information was difficult measure- thorough original used by ICE are some of the other sources by consultants on behalf of but invariably carried out ments of energy should be taken to care and trade associations. Much manufacturers not simply following a cir- that you can access original data and ensure where the cular process each the field simply reference few experts in papers and books. other’s plenty of of course, provides and this, certified data on embodied energy as with operational energy, only concerned ammunition for those who are In the mean- reliable. information is not that embodied energy they argue and accept that natural and renewable time, we have to use common sense carbon impact than syn- have a lower environmental materials by and large materials. thetic and petrochemical Table 5.2 5.2 Table sources Building elementWalls mineral wool brick/block and fired straw balehemp/limeInsulation fibreglassmineral woolhemp/flaxwoolFlooring (GJ)* energy embodied 65.8 vinyl floorlinoleum data is a lack of consistency in how in comparing embodied energy *One problem may show MJ/m Figures expressed. are figures 7.9 12.6 23.52 14.7 3.54 3.63 1.36 1.173 Carbon sequestration in timber

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 136 Wood transport issues 137 e/kg) 2 (Lippke 2010) (kgCO in their fabric and some people in their fabric and 2 Carbon and carbon dioxide equivalent in renewable building materials building in renewable equivalent dioxide and carbon Carbon : Murphy 2008 …the carbon stored in wood products is substantially greater than the emis- is substantially greater in wood products …the carbon stored much of the emis- That surplus offsets their initial manufacture. sions from used along with wood in the that are the nonwood products sions from wood that use more Designs structures. construction in typical residential that products the nonwood all the emissions from should be able to offset in ‘carbon negative’ structures. resulting may be required, The timber and timber frame industry have long made this claim and frame industry have long made The timber and timber been done by the has research In Canada and the USA considerable argue that this stored carbon can be counted against any embodied energy can be counted against any embodied carbon that this stored argue carbon footprint calculation. when making a holistic the to back up and academic literature is a small body of scientific there is available on hemp, straw, Much less data sequestration argument. flax timber. than more etc. but these materials may sequester even – Murphy 2008). (Table 5.3 Renewable Industrial Materials on international Consortium for Research in con- of timber and timber products (CORRIM 2012) to track the life cycle timber construction can lead to that the use of struction. They have argued ‘carbon negative’ structures. The embodied energy of timber is also affected by the amount that is of timber is also affected The embodied energy North America, Scandinavia and the Baltic countries. There imported from is a preju- the use of local timber but there has been a small move towards dice in the UK construction industry that UK and Irish timber is not as good, UK because much of it was originally planted for paper pulp production. government support for biomass heating is also putting at risk all wood- to land if it is to be chopped down for burning. Some have suggested that over would involve clear felling much UK forest meet UK biomass targets the next few years, and campaigns against this have become prominent has (Stop Burning 2012). Also, for many years illegally logged hardwood in In 2005, the UK was the worst offender rain forests. tropical come from Info 2012). (Carbon Europe survival of humanity. They then store this CO this store They then survival of humanity. hempstraw paperrecycled woolsheep’s Source 43 46 42 40 1.57 1.68 1.53 1.46 Table 5.3 5.3 Table Material content (%) Carbon Carbon dioxide equivalent Wood transport issues Wood

2 2 2 emis- 2 (of wall) 2 (i.e. carbon 2 (Alcorn 2010) , depending on the -e reductions from from -e reductions 3 2 offsets the CO offsets 2 31 kg per m 31 per m 2 minus -e reductions from using strawbale from -e reductions 2 is sequestrated in each cubic metre is sequestrated in each cubic metre 2 is stored in one tonne of dried hemp. Lime is stored 2 and timber represent actual sequestration. The CO and timber represent Strawbale and timber absorptions (1,230 kg) were almost the same as the kg) were Strawbale and timber absorptions (1,230 technologies applied energy-minimising from total emission-reductions of total kg), excluding site-specific wind generation. This is about half (1,277 house. The CO a standard emissions from reduced operating energy, however, only represent avoided emissions from avoided emissions from only represent however, operating energy, reduced the national grid. There has been much discussion about the use of ‘carbon sinks’ as a way about the use of ‘carbon sinks’ as has been much discussion There sions from burning the lime and cement that makes up the lime binder and and cement that makes up the lime burning the lime sions from walls. plasters used in Hemcrete This usually involves hair-brained, global warming. of helping to reduce pumping CO ideas such as geo-engineering projects, massively expensive Various figures can be found about the sequestration in hemp and hemp can be found about the sequestration in figures Various ranges from hemp production The amount of ‘carbon’ emitted in concrete. is a lot of transport there is high as currently MJ/kg. This figure 2.5 to 3.8 locally this and processed If it is grown involved in shipping hemp around. lime be less. When mixing hemp with lime to make hempcrete, will figure Thus a hemp- MJ/kg in production. MJ/kg and 5.3 binders use between 4.5 hemp However, MJ/kg of energy. can be seen as using about 8 wall crete and can during growth, also absorbs carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to one study within the construction element. According carbon store kg of CO (Pervais 2003), 325 emitted in creating a standard low energy house is tied up in conventional low energy a standard emitted in creating to just 5% (Carfrae that is reduced materials but with a strawbale house that straw and timber can sequester carbon 2011). Alcorn and Donn argue energy. than renewable effectively carbon emissions more and thus reduce According to Pritchett of Lime Technology, supplier of the Tradical Hemcrete Hemcrete of the Tradical supplier of Lime Technology, to Pritchett According pres- in various conference projects, of the case study to several products of CO times its dry weight hemp absorbs 1.7 (Pritchett 2011), entations using cavity wall that a typical He argues it to plant material. and converts kg per m mineral wool insulation emits 216 brick and block and ability of hemp to absorb CO negative). Thus the in the sea. The Inter Governmental or into microorganisms underground, consideration to such (IPCC 2012) has given much Panel on Climate Change a much simpler solution would be to schemes (Our Climate 2012). However, The term carbon negative does build buildings out of bio-based materials. a useful slogan thus does not provide not have a very positive ring to it and might be materials, but buildings as a carbon sink renewable for promoting that 40% of all CO argue easily understood. Carfrae and De Wilde more of hemp lime construction when spray applied, and that shuttered and cast of hemp lime construction when spray applied, and that shuttered kg of CO hemp lime sequestrates up to 165 Technology claims that 110 kg of CO claims that 110 Technology whereas a 300 mm thick Hemcrete wall emits wall mm thick Hemcrete a 300 whereas Carbon sequestration in hemp and hempcrete and in hemp sequestration Carbon

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 138 The Green Deal 139 can be 2 renewable energy energy renewable emitted when producing lime. Therefore the lime. Therefore when producing emitted 2 Further work is required to standardise what has become known as become known what has to standardise is required Further work At the time of writing, a much debated proposal to save energy in hous- to save energy proposal At the time of writing, a much debated existing houses but the financial Deal is aimed at retrofitting The Green carbon counting’. IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories Gas Inventories Greenhouse for National IPCC Guidelines carbon counting’. overall composite is claimed to be carbon negative (Lime Technology 2007). (Lime Technology to be carbon negative is claimed overall composite ‘ and Robson (2010) Both here. relevant are and ISO 14047 (IPCC 2006) calculations credible of producing begun the process Sadler (2011) have of CO that substantial amounts and they have demonstrated Much of the discussion so far has focused on new build construction but it so far has focused on new build Much of the discussion is also of existing buildings of retrofitting that the renovation is recognised energy zero UK government policy about so-called crucial to save energy. services and micro- housing has been focused on building a should create existing houses and buildings generation, but retrofitting insulation materials as they can and natural huge opportunity for renewable products. than many synthetic in renovation effective be much more offi- in and is certainly not reflected this has yet to be recognised However, have on retrofitting trials and experiments cial policies. Many of the current likely to be as effec- not are which been based on using synthetic products, build- experiment in retrofitting materials. An tive as natural and renewable a Victorian stable block where Establishment, ings at the Building Research of synthetic foam insulation products has been converted using a range a model of the others, is hardly BASF (‘The Chemical Company’) and from (BASF 2012). best way forward which private 2011) through Deal (Carrington ing in the UK is the Green give loans to householders to encour- financial institutions will be asked to Companies including British Gas, age them to insulate their houses. Lloyds Bank and Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Kingfisher, Carillion, EDF Energy, to take part. Several organisa- expected a number of supermarkets were Deal pulled out once details expected to back the Green tions who were Deal has been criticised by organi- 2012). The Green (Cuff confirmed were the sations such as WWF and the National Insulation Association because poorly worked out – ‘Industry warns of rocky incentives for the scheme are 2012). Conservative politi- Deal success’ (Business Green Green to road policy due to cians even mounted a campaign to ditch their own party’s unnecessary right wing views that climate change policies are rather bizarre (Harvey 2012). tasked with carrying this out do not necessarily organisations and energy that the right insulation is used in the right have the expertise to ensure level of compaction during construction. This estimate is lower than Pervais Pervais lower than is This estimate construction. during of compaction level account of the CO as it takes sequestered in new house building, simply from timber frame construction timber frame construction building, simply from in new house sequestered hemp). This could rep- other bio-based materials such as (without including government emissions savings as part of UK 50% of the ‘carbon’ resent materials. renewable if all construction used targets The Green Deal The Green which new (DECC 2011) Kingspan, Kooltherm, . They do say in very small let- and what processes and innovations are driv- are and innovations and what processes The products actually installed in the property must meet health and safety and in the property actually installed The products Code of Practice (to be Deal to in a Green referred performance standards will work with stakeholders to investigate consulted on). DECC products could be on the horizon products added) and driving down costs. (emphasis of measures ing up the performance Official bodies also give the impression that only main brand insulation that only main bodies also give the impression Official It is somewhat surprising that a public sector body like Wigan Council Natural and renewable materials could have a big part to play in reno- could have a big part to play materials Natural and renewable Many official bodies tend to refer to all insulation materials as though they to all insulation materials bodies tend to refer Many official is insulation’. In fact certain the same and do the same job: ‘Insulation were wrongly frequently are for certain uses and inappropriate insulations are onto breathable foam is sprayed polyurethane applied. Non-breathable are products instance. Mineral fibre walls, thus trapping dampness, for and may not function as it can become damp used in situations where effectively. leaflet on the website purposes. A acceptable for regulation materials are ‘acceptable insulation materi- that lists of Wigan Council Building Control bodies. Wigan by official provided als’ is typical of the kind of information Local Council claimed that this guidance was issued by the UK-wide body (LABC) but LABC denied this when contacted. Authority Building Control can be found on other local authority building similar guidance However, – Wigan 2012). (Table 5.4 websites control by their trade name such as products should promote Celotex GA 3080Z, Jabfloor 70 and Rocksilk and meth- ters at the bottom of the leaflet that ‘other acceptable products available’, but the vast majority of designers and ods of construction are use specifiers and members of the public would assume that they have to to comply easily named in the guidance in order products the proprietary Natural and renewable materials are currently available and in use rather available and currently materials are Natural and renewable valuable contribution they might make than being ‘on the horizon’ but the policies Deal. Instead official to in the Green is not referred to retrofitting products. based the use of synthetic and petrochemical promote way. The programme is based on the assumption that fitting insulation to insulation that fitting the assumption based on is programme The way. being so. is far from task but that buildings is a straightforward existing lead to damp- fabric and can damage building applied insulation Wrongly will not pro- Deal The Green building failures. and even ness, condensation being are efforts householders though advice to professional vide expert centres. establish training made to and the Deal agenda not appear to be on the Green vation but this does Deal website to materials Green available on the DECC only reference says: Official promotion of synthetic insulations promotion Official

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 140 Official promotion of synthetic insulations 141 Reproduced from Wigan Building Control Guidance Leaflet 12 Guidance Control Building Wigan from Reproduced For the lazy specifier, it could be assumed that only the named products it could be assumed that only the named products For the lazy specifier, with regulations. Having spoken to Wigan about this leaflet in early 2011 it Having spoken to Wigan about with regulations. available on the Internet a year later was surprising to find that it was still rules, public sector bodies should not (Wigan 2012). Under EU competition others, and such a leaf- in favour of the use of particular products promote way to pro- rules. The correct such let might well be viewed as breaching set out the range of insulation would be to vide guidance of this nature as stone wool or polyure- generic descriptions such materials providing Guide to the BRE Green copied from thane. Such a list could easily be out key natural materials). Specification (though it too leaves and they would not bother to argue approval would get building regulations which products, the case for alternatives, including natural and renewable on the Wigan Council leaflet. When asked on the tele- not mentioned are materials such as phone why Wigan did not include natural and renewable of such was that they had never heard wool, the response hemp and sheep’s faced by the materials being used! This is an indication of the difficulties insulation materials and suppliers of natural and renewable manufacturers deal of ignorance and preju- is a great and there and other similar products, guidance. Wigan was selected at random and dice built in even to official the UK. found in guidance in local authorities across similar examples were Table 5.4 5.4 Table Leaflet 12 Guidance Building Control for designers Part L2006.doc Guidance Products/suppliers Celotex www.celotex.co.uk Jablite www.jablite.co.uk/adl/ Kingspan www.insulation.kingspan.com/envivo/default.htm Knauf Insulation www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/ Rockwool www.rockwool.co.uk/sw47799.asp Insulations Sheffield www.sheffins.co.uk Celcon celcon.co.uk/ Tarmac www.topblock.co.uk/ Thermalite www.thermalite.co.uk/default.aspx and part of Glass wool 32% Others 1% Polyurethane 4% Polyurethane (Sativa bags 2012) Wood wool 4% Wood also food crops Extruded polystyrene 5% polystyrene Extruded Market share of insulation materials according to the mineral fibre industry to the mineral fibre of insulation materials according Market share Expanded polystyrene 26% Expanded polystyrene A large percentage of the nutrients that hemp uses for growth are returned returned are of the nutrients that hemp uses for growth percentage A large It also fits to the soil as the leaves fall so the need for fertilisers is reduced. soil fertility must be maintained. where rotation crop well into an organic and oil), and textiles), flax (fibre cotton (paper main competitors are Hemp’s amounts of using large grown (health). All these are and evening primrose pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals. There is little doubt that synthetic manmade insulations dominate the is little doubt that synthetic manmade There Stone wool 28% The shiv used in hempcrete is a by-product of hemp grown for fibre and oil. for fibre of hemp grown is a by-product The shiv used in hempcrete hemp it would only built from In any case even if all houses in the UK were Plant based materials are sometimes muddled with biofuels. Some suggest sometimes muddled Plant based materials are turned over to is if agriculture will be adversely affected that food production against arguments strong are There making insulation or building products. and biofuels for heating and transport,the use of land for biomass heating should be seen quite differently. but using land for bio-construction materials are like flax, hemp wheat and barley straw Crops valuable when used in Hemp is particularly normal agricultural production. suppressing as it cleans up the ground, and potato crops with cereal rotation Hemp can also the density of leaf cover. particularly persistent weeds, due to or weedkiller. with minimal fertiliser and no pesticides be grown Figure 5.4 5.4 Figure 1% to 5% depending from materials range market. Natural and renewable 60% taking about show mineral fibres statistics. Some sources on different by the plastic foam industry produced of the market but a similar pie-chart 50%! Whoever you believe, the mar- shows synthetic foams as taking about based by synthetic petrochemical ket for insulation materials is dominated (Figure 5.4). products Other attitudes hostile to natural materials – the food crops argument materials – the food crops Other attitudes hostile to natural

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 142 Transport and localism 143 and providing important natural habitats. If sustainably important natural and providing 2 It does not make a lot of environmental sense for bales of bulky plant sense for bales of bulky plant It does not make a lot of environmental in the Bradford wool has traditionally been processed Most UK sheep’s Sheep’s wool comes from shearing sheep and the meat from the sheep is the meat from shearing sheep and the wool comes from Sheep’s managed, forestry for construction is a sustainable activity (FSC 2012). Many is a sustainable activity (FSC 2012). for construction managed, forestry activ- other forestry from by-products also are products timber construction in to food production a threat present Thus bio-based materials do not ity. countries. be unlikely to do so in many other the UK and would Another criticism of bio-based materials is the distance travelled by the Another criticism of bio-based materials This is a real factory and manufacture. farm to processing materials from and renewable of natural the embodied energy as it increases problem plant one main processing has been only materials. For instance, as there hemp does travel quite a dis- Suffolk, for hemp in the UK, in Halesworth, and Yorkshire in now emerging plants are tance though smaller processing other places. happens. this is what currently but Europe material to be shipped around means that materials are in France, Poland and elsewhere Processing insulation materials are Lightweight one country to another. moved from Many of the wood and containers. large bulky and require even more pro- currently are products and board hemp based insulation materials is for this or Slovakia. The reason duced in Austria, France, Switzerland to attract investment for it is hard that the market is very small and thus If the benefits of every region. plants in or even small processing large policy and the advo- supported by government materials were renewable of synthetic petro- and if the manufacturers efficiency, cates of energy costs, then to pay the true environmental forced chemical materials were be more would demand, and local production would be greater there viable and worthwhile. and Devon. The distributors in North Wales also factories are there but area their materials are about where not always up front of natural materials are using local as everyone wants to think that they are actually coming from the UK wool market controls Marketing Board materials. The British Wool 2012) and they operate a central marketing system for wool. (British Wool Midlands and Wicklow in Ireland Sheepwool Insulation in the English West require a relatively small proportion of agricultural land to grow the hemp. the hemp. to grow land agricultural of proportion small a relatively require new houses to build 200,000 were that if industry argue Hemp Technology to of land on which hectares 250,000 require it would still only in the UK (Hemp Technology of all arable land This is about 5% the hemp. grow used hectares the 17.5 million 28 per cent of any case only about 2012). In 5 million hec- (nearly to arable crops the UK is allocated in for agriculture (Angus 2009). 67 per cent is grassland whereas tares), material in buildings. Most by using the unaffected also a food source, agricultural other threaten so do not upland pasture, sheep also use rough to play in producing has a valuable role Timber for construction production. CO oxygen from Transport and localism and Transport (Green England 2012) England (Green of sheep’s wool with tenants expecting to wool of sheep’s 2 of wool. 2 Coleshill is one of a number of National Trust estates to install sheep wool estates to install number of National Trust Coleshill is one of a on the National include 51 farms and 38 cottages insulation. Other estates and 36 proper- near Betws-y-Coed in North Wales Ysbyty Ifan Estate Trust’s the properties in Northumberland. In Wales, Wallington ties at the village of m with 3,000 have been insulated see a saving of up to 20 per cent in their energy consumption as a result of a result consumption as to 20 per cent in their energy see a saving of up by the sheep The idea has been especially welcomed the new insulation. in the new market the estate, who see a major benefit farmers who live on now to are Wales and a further 38 farms in south for wool products, emerging m be installed with 1,000 A further factor in terms of cost perception is that many specifiers look is that many specifiers look A further factor in terms of cost perception There are also many people and organisations that assume that natural that natural that assume also many people and organisations are There dismiss and therefore expensive materials must be more and renewable seeking quotations. If synthetic petro- them out of hand, often without pro- costs of their environmental to pay the real were chemical products then natural and renewable duction, based on ‘full cost accounting’, (Bebbington 2011). Sadly grounds materials would always win on cost can be seen as part of a construction materials natural and renewable will- exploit the fact that customers are niche market and many companies priced more foods are organic in much the same way as ing to pay more materials if the consumption of natural and renewable However, highly. the unit cost will most certainly to the volumes of synthetic material, grows materials and renewable Another cost factor is that many natural reduce. in other countries imported from expensive in the UK as they are more are bring costs in the UK this will increases and if production mainland Europe down. wool for substitution. Sheep’s at alternative materials in terms of direct for polyurethane. or wood fibre for polystyrene hempcrete mineral fibre, materials can offer This is a false comparison as the natural renewable in terms of building performance and buildability and even much more These factors no longer necessary. other materials which are replace the RHP may leave by estimators. Unfortunately, may not be considered materials will that natural renewable some people with the impression In fact, the majority of subsidy is a grant or subsidy. only be used if there equipment and energy went on renewable in the case study projects, (Sheepwool Insulation 2012) have done a good job promoting the use of use of the job promoting a good done 2012) have Insulation (Sheepwool made in is currently product the UK but the and in Ireland this product wool has used sheep’s in England and Wales National Trust Austria. The of using wool but, instead Wales for farms in North insulation insulation used a product, away they have a few miles in Wales, and made sourced explained that Trust the National When contacted, Austria! from imported not and were projects wool insulation in other Welsh they had bought Austria. from came that the Irish product aware Cost

Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 144 Cost 145

, Thursday The Guardian Land Use Policy . Chelsea Green . Chelsea Green . Friends of the Earth, The Guardian Full Cost Accounting: an Agenda for A Dangerous Distraction: Why Carbon A Dangerous The Solar House: Passive Heating and Cooling The Solar House: Passive Heating and The Report of the Brundtland Commission, Our Common Future The Report of the Brundtland Commission, insulation materials was not substantially greater than if if than greater not substantially was materials insulation . Certified Accountants Educational Trust 2001 . Certified Accountants Educational Trust 2009 S230–S242 2009 5 April 2012 p. 17 under new low impact development and one planet development planning poli- and the need for a workable solution’ unpub- problems cies: critical and urgent lished paper (2011) house builders?’ NHBC NF9 (2008) 3.10.11 p. 23 Publishing Vancouver (viewed 7.2.12) house-building-industry-calls-for-revised-part-l-delay/ (viewed 28.2.12) www.corrim.org (viewed 28.2.12) on Conference construction’, Second International sequestration in house Materials (June 2010) Ancona, Italy Sustainable Construction in the UK, and possible grown crops from construction materials renewable Architecture. on Passive and Low Energy Conference impacts’, The 21st 19–22 September 2004 Eindhoven, The Netherlands, of the farm- of agricultural commodities, characteristics Demand for and supply UK’. and implications for land use in the ing and food industries, 26S 13.4.12) Action (viewed 10.2.12) ment-from-food-to-architecture/ Press University Oxford is Failing the Climate and People: The Evidence Offsetting London, June 2009 (viewed 28.2.12) rocky-road-green-deal-success 27.3.12) Brussels 2011 materials’ PLEA Conference, renewable dwelling built from Dale, S. and Saville, J. (2011) ‘The compatibility of building regulations with projects with projects Dale, S. and Saville, J. (2011) ‘The compatibility of building regulations 2012) National Planning Policy Framework DCLG (March carbon: what does it mean to homeowners and (2008) ‘Zero V. Davis, I. and Harvey, Chiras D.D. (2002) (2012) http://www.constructionenquirer.com/2012/02/03/ Construction Enquirer on Renewable Industrial Materials http:// CORRIM (2012) Consortium for Research deal list’ green missing from M. (2012) ‘M&S and Tesco Cuff, the cost of the of the the cost had been used! manmade materials synthetic (viewed 3.2.12) AECB http://www.aecb.net/conference2011.php Scotland, http://www.adaptationscotland.org.uk/4/5/0/Projects.aspx Adaption and timber for carbon M. ‘Life cycle potential of strawbale Alcorn, A. and Donn, of production for large-scale Houses: The potential (2004) ‘Home Grown Allen, P.K. and land use: ,J. (2009) ‘Agriculture Morris, J. and Lingard P.J., Angus, A., Burgess, (viewed BASF 2012 www.basf.co.uk/…/DBD937_BASF_Victoria_Terrace_HR.pdf C., (2001), R. and Hibbit, Bebbington, J., Gray, M., http://www.good.is/post/100-mile-houses-expands-the-locavore-move Boyer, (viewed 3.5.12) www.britishwool.org.uk Marketing Board, British Wool Brundtland (1987) Bullock, S., Childs, M. and Picken, M. (2009) http://www.businessgreen.com/bg/news/2118394/industry-warns- Business Green, (viewed Carbon Info (2012) http://www.carbon-info.org/carboninfo_083.htm solar House: a passive (2011), ‘The Leechwell Garden Carfrae, J. and Dewilde, P. efficient’ homes energy Carrington D. (2011) ‘Firms unite to make References

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Attitudes to renewable materials, energy issues and the policy context 146 Cost 147

Vol.8, Vol.8, Architectural Architectural Earthscan 2012 International Journal of LCA Ecohouse: A Design Guide Ecohouse: A Design , Vol.39, No.4, pp.325–340 , Vol.39, The Green Building Handbook Volumes 1 and 2 Building Handbook Volumes The Green Crowood Press 2006 Press Crowood Zero Carbon Homes: A Road Map Carbon Zero Natural Building 1997 and 2000 Spon (viewed 28.2.12) Press 2007 Press (unpublished paper) egy for the UK’ 2010 unpublished paper earth.cfm (viewed 28.2.12) flax’ ucts made of stone wool, paper wool and No.5, p.317 5.5.12) (viewed 28.2.12) embodiedenergy.html consult/?lang=en (viewed 28.2.12) L2006.doc http://www.wigan.gov.uk/Services/Planning/BuildingControl/Application Forms.htm (viewed 16.2.12) buildings/sustainablehomes (viewed 28.2.12) (viewed buildings/sustainablehomes www.buildinglimesforum.org.uk/2011-conference 2010) of Building Engineering Physics (January – The discipline Built Environment Huddersfield thesis. University of London Saving Trust and Energy of British Architects Design, Royal Institute Resources,Conservation and Recycling Resources,Conservation Zero Carbon Hub http://www.zerocarbonhub.org/news_details.aspx?article=13 Hub http://www.zerocarbonhub.org/news_details.aspx?article=13 Carbon Zero Robson (2010) ‘Carbon stored in harvested wood product materials in the UK’ materials in in harvested wood product stored Robson (2010) ‘Carbon change mitigation strat- materials for housing as a climate Sadler (2010) ‘Biogenic Sativa Bags http://www.sativabags.com/hemp_information/hemp_friend_of_the_ LCA of building insulation prod- Schmidt ,A., Jensen, A. et al. (2004) ‘A comparative (viewed 5.5.12) Sheepwool Insulation (2012) www.sheepwoolinsulation.i.e. Stop burning (2012) http://www.stopburningourtrees.org (viewed Building Council (2012) http://www.ukgbc.org/content/materials UK Green (viewed 28.2.12) http://www.ukcip.org.uk/case-studies/ UKCIP, http://www.bath.ac.uk/research/features/ University of Bath (viewed.1 Government http://wales.gov.uk/consultations/planning/ruralhousing Wales Guidance Leaflet 12 Guidance for designers Part Wigan (2012) Building Control Williams, J. (2012) (2006) T. Woolley, and Kimmins, S. (1997) T. Woolley, Planning Portal UK http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/greener UK http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/greener Planning Portal http:// presentations. conference in various I. (2011) (Lime Technology) Pritchett, a Low Carbon Academy of Engineering London: Engineering RAE 2010: The Royal PhD products’, embodied carbon labelling of building C.M. (2009) ‘The Richardson, Associates May 2010 RICS with Sturgis Redefining Zero. Report: RICS 2010 Research Assessment for Low Carbon 8, Whole Life Change Toolkit RIBA (undated) Climate and Thomas, S. (2007) Roaf, S., Fuentes, M. Our Climate (2012) http://www.ourclimate.net/sequestration.htm (viewed 7.2.12) (viewed http://www.ourclimate.net/sequestration.htm (2012) Our Climate composites, in natural fiber storage potential (2003) Carbon Pervais, M. 6. Building physics, natural materials and policy issues

Few people in the UK built environment field even recognise the importance of building engineering physics, let alone know how to apply the principles in the design of buildings. Building projects are traditionally led by architects, not engineers, but building energy performance hardly features in architectural education. This lack of essential knowledge to inform strategic design decisions has led to the perpetuation of an experimental approach to building performance, rather than an approach based on synthesis, rigorous analysis, testing and measurement of the outcome. (RAE 2010)

This statement from the Royal Academy of Engineering is an indictment of current built environment education in the UK. However, similar problems can be found throughout the world, in architecture and other built environ- ment disciplines. At the ARC-PEACE international conference in Copenhagen in April 2012, a resolution was adopted on the education of architects and planners:

We urge professional schools to develop curricula and train instructors to teach the architectural and planning skills necessary to create healthy, socially sustainable environments and create buildings and plan cities with smaller carbon footprints that reduce consumption and conserve energy. (ARC-PEACE 2012)

It seems remarkable that in 2012, a group of architects and eminent profes- sors from all over the world, including Sweden, India, Peru, USA and Canada should find it necessary to call on universities and professional bodies to address socially responsible and ecological issues. Professional bodies such as the Royal Institute of British Architects and the International Union of Architects pay lip service to sustainability, but in practice many architecture schools have become art-house style and fashion centres that worship

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Holistic design 149 consideration. As has already consideration. As has already equal lack of good building physics understanding lack of good building and a lack of attention performance poor systems of assessing energy to thermal mass tools inadequate simulation and prediction on materials and buildings weak government and EU policy directives impact and performance poor assessment of material environmental in buildings, breatha- and durability lack of understanding of moisture bility and hygroscopicity indoor air quality issues. attention to health, pollution and insufficient Also there is a complex interrelationship between external weather, between external weather, is a complex interrelationship Also there materials is disadvantaged the use of natural and renewable Furthermore Despite this, there are many, often small, hardworking architecture and architecture hardworking often small, many, are there Despite this, topics discussed in this chap- of concern and a number of areas are There

A key principle of ecological building and design should be to adopt a A key principle of ecological building use to energy from all important issues In other words holistic approach. impact should be given environmental who tend to focus many ‘experts’ are been discussed in Chapter 5, there the impor- and downplay energy, on just one issue, such as operational or indoor air quality. energy tance of other issues such as embodied many more responsibility to be truly committed to environmental However, should be given equal attention. efficiency issues other than energy of materials, ventilation, design and and the nature internal humidity, of building scientific knowl- detailing. Unfortunately the agencies and areas leading to mostly compartmentalised and unrelated, edge in this field are a poor understanding of how buildings actually perform in their totality. environ- to building physics and related because conventional approaches based on the perfor- science have been largely mental and energy mance of based lightweight masonry construction and petrochemical insulations. constantly and building science methods are Regulations famous signature architects, few of whom have much concern for sustaina- for much concern have of whom few architects, signature famous for the future. prospect It is a worrying bility. pro- to environmentally committed strongly are practices that engineering They can be against the tide. swimming often they are design, but gressive to sustainability whose commitment firms commercial by larger undercut and engineers who want architects Those goes beyond greenwash. rarely by hampered and sustainable design are of green to push the boundaries physics and of building back-up, particularly in the area a lack of technical developing for companies This is also a major problem building science. and regulations materials because current renewable and selling natural based materi- biased in favour of petrochemical are building science tools to building. approaches als and conventional ter including: t t t t t t t Holistic design

When the proponents of natural and renewable materials expound their materials expound renewable of natural and proponents When the physics expect that the principles of building to It might be reasonable most of the changes in this area In addition, over the past few decades, intro- Portal 2012) were details (Planning ‘Robust’ and then ‘accredited’ as thermal mass it has been understood, that issues such recently More on computer simulation methods to relying designers are Increasingly evolving as technology changes, particularly as we move away from from move away as we particularly changes, technology as evolving to timber construction. masonry and health performance, good environmental such as their advantages humid- and to handle moisture ability breathability, air quality, good indoor not always these claims are performance, excellent thermal ity and an and conventional solid data. Conventional wisdom backed up by enough building used to discount these claims. Unless science is often architectural benefits of renewable practice changes, the claimed physics theory and to challenge by detractors. vulnerable materials remain of commercial on good science and be independent would be based build- that the discipline of becomes apparent but it soon vested interests often driven by com- weak in the academic sector and ing physics is very largely are and testing bodies in the UK funding. Universities mercial The lack of independent and critical industry. from dependent on funding the literature. when searching science is self-evident that have requirements and compliance have been driven by regulations of science. For many years it was con- not always been based on the best simply by pre- for thermal performance to be regulated sufficient sidered that insulation performance was realised scribing levels of insulation. Then it calculation meth- bridging. Various was weakened by air leakage and cold made to make were as efforts and strengthened introduced ods were carbon emissions and reduce to the new agenda to buildings respond been based on sci- consumption. While these changes have energy reduce independent analysis to proper been subject entific advice, this has rarely political decisions. by pragmatic and and has often driven more on conventional building prac- often inflexible, based duced but these are As discussed in Chapter 5, many tice and, in the view of some, unworkable. in practice. fail to work efficiency of the attempts to achieve energy also play a big part, terms of moisture and the performance of materials in meth- and calculation in many regulations recognised though this is barely have important thermal mass materials ods in the UK. Natural, renewable these become better under- handling characteristics, so as and moisture systems, then natural and renewa- stood and incorporated into regulatory accepted. readily ble materials will be more on largely performance of buildings. These simulation tools rely the predict data, derived from not always backed up with hard assumptions that are exists a that there building performance. Indeed, it can be argued real-time parallel universe of experts sitting behind computers designing virtual build- build- strategies that have almost nothing to do with real ings and energy ings. These tools also have built-in assumptions that favour conventional materials and construction methods, though one or two like WUFI in buildings. the importance of moisture (Fraunhofer 2012) recognise

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 150 European standards, trade and professional organisations 151 (EC 1988) the giving off of toxic gases the giving off particle or gases in the air of dangerous the presence radiation the emission of dangerous pollution or poisoning of the water or soil or liquid wastes smoke, solid faulty elimination of waste water, of damp in parts of the works or on surfaces within the works the presence

Annex 1 Essential requirements 3. Hygiene Health and the environment 3. Hygiene Health and Annex 1 Essential requirements and built in such a way that it will The construction work must be designed to the health or hygiene of the occupants or neighbours in not be a threat of any of the following: particular as a result t t t t t t As regulations and new tools have been overlaid on each other, over the over other, on each overlaid been tools have and new As regulations More recently the Construction Products Regulations have replaced the Regulations have replaced the Construction Products recently More they for CE marking of materials. However, and make provisions Directive Declarations (EPDs) compulsory Product have not made Environmental words EPDs (in other not specified that they should be third-party and have of by an independent assessment body). This is a result prepared Organisations responsible for setting standards, carrying out tests and pro- carrying out for setting standards, responsible Organisations Attempts pressures. of commercial free rarely viding technical guidance are for materials standardisation greater Union to introduce by the European been balked for years by performance have quality and environmental Construction The EU trade organisations. lobbying of European effective clear that pol- in 1988 and made was initially approved Directive Products this enforce little has been done to important. However, lution issues were objective: years, fundamental errors of concept and science become reinforced and reinforced and science become of concept errors years, fundamental become conventional thinking and new systems. Assumptions built into assump- practice. Often these tested in rarely wisdom and are accepted pro- who are companies industrial from claims and data based on tions are biased commercially These build products. materials and moting their to hear builders, calculation tools. It is not uncommon information into materials to generic building science experts, refer specifiers and even leading trade and foam insulations by the membranes such as breather is rather than their generic terms. This and Kingspan names such as Tyvek and a ready to specification very pragmatic approach symptomatic of the such companies. The technical information supplied by acceptance of the attended by development (CPD) seminars professional bulk of continuing This acts to the dis- companies. by commercial organised are professionals and as smaller materials and products, renewable advantage of natural profes- to do the promotion, do not have the resources newer companies of conventional manufacturers lobbying that the larger sional training and use. products European standards, trade and professional organisations trade and professional standards, European (EU 2011) (EU 2011) (Umweltbundesamt 2012) . (emphasis added) when available after demolition; construction works For the assessment of the sustainable use of resources and of the impact of and of the impact of of the sustainable use of resources For the assessment (c) compatible raw and secondary materials in the use of environmentally The construction works must be designed, built and demolished in such a way the is sustainable and in particular ensure that the use of natural resources following: (a) of the construction works, their materials and parts or recyclability reuse (b) of the construction works durability We think a requirement promoting the sustainable use of natural resources in the sustainable use of natural resources promoting think a requirement We CPD. The sustainable use the future construction works should be added into marking and can be enhanced; when an adequate product of resources substances in construction that any hazardous design ensure appropriate during demolition. Here treatment works can be easily separated for suitable substances in con- of dangerous limit the presence to requirements European easier. would make recycling struction products When a construction product is covered by a harmonised standard or con- harmonised standard by a is covered product When a construction it, the has been issued for Assessment, which Technical European forms to a when such a prod- of performance draw up a declaration shall manufacturer market. uct is placed on the Declarations Product Environmental on the environment, construction works should be used EU construction product regulations are managed through national gov- national managed through are regulations EU construction product However, the final regulations are very vague and weak in terms of resource very vague and weak in terms of resource are the final regulations However, or embod- resources is no mention of non-renewable consumption as there ied energy. Environmental lobbying at European level is relatively weak due to the high level is relatively European lobbying at Environmental commercial while large in Brussels and Strasbourg, costs of gaining access able to maintain permanent offices are organisations companies and trade for Construction Industry Federation, the European in Brussels. FIEC, of Brussels, just down in the centre Louise at Avenue instance, has an office Insulation Manufacturers’ Louise) is the European (also in Avenue the road Association is a couple of Cement Association (EURIMA). The European is a bit part of the Global Plastics Federation Plastics Europe, away. streets manufacturers’ the Polyurethane out of town, as is PU European more association. for stricter and inde- pushed very hard ernment agencies and they have not calls statement’ In the ‘Zagreb controls. environmental pendently enforced and recycling. use of natural resources made for greater were conservative industry pressure to ensure that strong environmental stand- environmental that strong to ensure pressure industry conservative voluntary: and remain not enforced were ards

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 152 European standards, trade and professional organisations 153 Materials in Building (CLIMB), Materials in at Bath centre supports research University through an expensive process through Their guidance on natural materials Their guidance on natural 2011) in 2011 is limited (NHBC Little evidence of interest in renew- Little evidence of interest not supported able materials and has any research (NHBC Foundation 2012) Has shown some interest in Has shown some interest materials renewable and renewable materials and renewable able materials able materials renewable materials renewable able materials Little evidence of interest in renew- Little evidence of interest able materials able materials able materials renewable materials including hemp, renewable wool, wood fibre hemp lime, sheep’s and cellulose (EST 2010) able materials able materials Has shown some interest in renew- Has shown some interest able materials but has nothing on its website under ‘materials’ association in renew- of interest Little evidence association in renew- Little evidence of interest Private trust for Low Impact Set up the Centre house building provides research funding research provides control association control Private trust in renew- Little evidence of interest Private association in Has shown some interest Private member Member organisation Member organisation equivalent to American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) association UK Organisations concerned with building and environmental standards environmental building and with concerned UK Organisations Organisation Status materials in renewable Interest Table 6.1 6.1 Table Building Research Building Research (BRE) Establishment British Board of AgrementBritish Board linked to BRE Private materials certify renewable Will NHBC warranties for Provides NHBC Foundation Private trust linked to BRE, LABC Local authority building LABC warranty Private insurance company warranties for natural Has provided British Standards Institute (BSI)British Standards Quango in renew- Little evidence of interest Construction Industry and Information Research Association (CIRIA) Construction Products Construction Products Association BSRIA: consultancy, test, BSRIA: consultancy, instruments and research mainly on organisation building services Chartered Institute of Building Chartered Services Engineers (CIBSE) Energy InstituteEnergy Private members TRADA Industry association in renew- Little evidence of interest CERAM Private trust testing body Can do testing of natural materials Energy Saving TrustEnergy Quango some information on Provides Carbon Trust Quango in renew- Little evidence of interest Zero Carbon HubZero Quango in renew- Little evidence of interest UK Green Building CouncilUK Green Industry membership (EN 2011) (RAE 2010) , which look at a wider range of environmental range of environmental , which look at a wider resource efficiency resource Put bluntly, there are not sufficient of the brightest and best entering a career of the brightest and best entering a career not sufficient are there Put bluntly, in the design of buildings as a system, and the systems within a building. An is that of Building Engineering underpinning knowledge needed in that area Physics. Existing policies for promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy use in energy and renewable efficiency energy promoting Existing policies for and complemented with poli- need to be strengthened buildings therefore cies for (emphasis added) of buildings and infrastructure. the life cycle impacts across So serious is this problem that the Royal Academy of Engineering set up that the Royal Academy So serious is this problem The RAE report neatly sums up the current problems of how bad the situa- problems neatly sums up the current The RAE report and regulations of a plethora of new energy tion has become as a result Very few UK universities offer courses or research programmes on building programmes courses or research few UK universities offer Very Services Engineers (CIBSE) Institute of Building physics. The Chartered as suitable for Chartered degrees only 16 undergraduate accredits presently 12 institutions, including from Engineer in building services engineering, the Open University. consultancies, professional from a scheme to place leading practitioners Cambridge and Sheffield Happold, into Bath, Bristol, such as Arup and Buro in building generate interest to try to Universities as visiting professors, parts of the world available in other are physics. Excellent programmes or the Netherlands (Technical such as the USA (University of Berkeley) institutes in Germany and Denmark, but are University of Delft) and there on building physics is very thin. even at an international level the literature Without efforts at a European level to keep the environmental agenda alive to keep the environmental level at a European Without efforts within the UK to push out the bound- it is unlikely that much would be done materi- of natural and renewable efficiencies aries or support the resource issues are and energy in the UK involved in materials als. Organisations (Table 6.1)numerous agenda and and most have their own commercial concern with environ- follow a holistic and these rarely vested interests, materials. in renewable interest mental impacts. Few have shown much EU regulations have been valuable in pushing the agenda on sustainable on sustainable the agenda pushing in valuable have been EU regulations pow- tape, but as further red them many regard even though construction, the the scope of successful in limiting have been very groups erful lobby set policies This is despite progressive Regulations. Product Construction advocates This efficiency. 2011 about resource EU in September out by the and quote products, footprints of environmental on the better information harmful distorted by environmentally prices are which says an OECD report In a section by governments (Section 3.4). being subsidised products the EU states: Buildings’, headed ‘5.5. Improving Building physics – lack of good research and education research Building physics – lack of good

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 154 Lack of data and good research on sustainable buildings 155 operate (RAE 2010) . (emphasis added) . This lack of consistency results in . This lack of consistency results The field has no recognised codes of practice or profes- The field has no recognised Thus the design of buildings, traditionally disconnected between the disci- Thus the design of buildings, traditionally enormous variations in the standard of service provided by practitioners. of service provided enormous variations in the standard fragmented. A design team may often now plines, has become even more sustaina- engineer, building services structural engineer, comprise architect, vying to be seen as the champion of bility consultant and code assessor all these teams often fail to communicate and co- However, sustainability. sional standards and work is often undertaken by consultants from wide rang- often undertaken by consultants from and work is sional standards building be conversant with the principles of who may not ing backgrounds engineering physics, or even engineering demand on mechanical will reduce to make the key strategic decisions that climate control and electrical solutions for comfort and This position has led to a new type of professional, a sustainability consultant a sustainability to a new type of professional, This position has led or code assessor … The National Audit office says that 80% of houses have failed to achieve says that 80% of houses The National Audit office A further difficulty for research and education in the field of building phys- for research A further difficulty in the completed projects ics is the lack of good data and feedback from (Carbon of the Carbon Trust UK. This is due to the disappointing record practice’ ‘best 2010). Type (EST Saving Trust Energy 2012) and the Trust The engine and you will find ‘no results’. search into the Carbon Trust’s Thus the work of current energy practitioners is not underpinned by a con- practitioners is not energy Thus the work of current of principles. The UK Government sistent and scientifically based set and LEED but such as BREEAM buildings to comply with standards requires guidance and mechanisms to information, “the industry lacks sufficient (RAE 2010). such targets’. design and construct buildings to achieve that the same is likely since 2002 and performance targets environmental also point out that poor professional to be true of other buildings. They expensive, yet energy- to be more expertise leads to buildings that appear if well designed: expensive buildings do not need to be more efficient or no more performance are “buildings aiming for a high environmental less expensive than conventional buildings” (EEBPP 1999). requirements such as from the Code for Sustainable Homes. Many people, people, Many Homes. Sustainable Code for the from such as requirements lim- assessors have assessors or code as energy services offering currently are or experience No prior qualifications and expertise. ited training to UK. It is possible assessor in the energy become a domestic needed to a four-day following assessor, Homes a Code for Sustainable qualify as Accreditation BRE Approved of the exam and membership course, an become a BREEAM assessor involves Homes 2012). To Scheme (Sustainable Prior qualifi- training programme. a two or three-day even less with either no pre-qualification are “There not required. are cations and expertise The only International assessor. to becoming a BREEAM requirements of written is the need to have a very good understanding thing we stipulate (BREEAM 2012) and spoken English.” Lack of data and good research on sustainable buildings Lack of data and good research : techno- (TSB 2012) (RAE 2010) (RAE op cit) Concept to Commercialisation and sustainably to create wealth and and sustainably to create . Technology Strategy Board – Our Strategy – Strategy Board Technology There is also a need for fundamental research in many areas relating to energy to energy relating in many areas a need for fundamental research is also There building engineering of not just in the area supply and carbon reductions, due to the established at present physics, which is inadequately supported bodies, such as the to qualify for funding from funding mechanisms. In order market, to must be able to demonstrate a route researchers Carbon Trust, range with a broad fundamental research limiting the opportunities for more failing to Thus, we are partner. of application not linked to one industrial in the to restrictions due research develop potentially beneficial lines of agile means of find new and more funding criteria. It is important that we supporting both. is for the UK to be a global Strategy Board The vision of the Technology leader in innovation and a magnet for innovative businesses, where effectively logy is applied rapidly, enhance quality of life. (emphasis added) The Energy Efficiently Best Practice Programme (EEBPP) was the UK (EEBPP) was the Practice Programme Best Efficiently The Energy information, advice and research efficiency principal energy Government’s public and private sectors. … Since the in the for organisations programme of information, in 2002, the wealth to the Carbon Trust transfer of the EEBPP and is now years has gradually become unavailable amassed over many out of print largely The RAE is very critical of the Carbon Trust: is very critical of The RAE Similar criticisms can be made of the UK Technology Strategy Board, Strategy Board, Similar criticisms can be made of the UK Technology for research which has been the main UK Government agency responsible focused on the needs of It has aims largely in the built environment. industry: Bordass and Leaman (2005) have kept alive interest in post-occupancy eval- in post-occupancy have kept alive interest and Leaman (2005) Bordass UK was funded by the programme Their ‘Probe’ uation of buildings. published 2002, and some 20 case studies were 1995 to Government from the established Journal. Leaman and Bordass in the Building Services Associates (Arup which was then hosted by Arup Usable Buildings Trust, has limited what it has been able to 2012), but lack of significant funding analysis of completed objective do. Without good feedback and careful The dearth of future. practice in the little can be done to improve projects policy that insists and data is made worse by government good research any results funded by industry and that should be largely that research that critical or ana- This means almost immediately. must be market ready criticism of funded at all. As the RAE states in their is rarely lytical research the Carbon Trust: Carbon Trust seems only concerned with building services and mechanical and mechanical services building with concerned only seems Trust Carbon fabric (Carbon fact sheet on building only one and publishes processes to. referred are polystyrene rigid foam and Only mineral wool, 2007). Trust

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 156 Energy simulation and calculation tools 157 emission rates for new buildings 2 sufficiently. In pursuit of targets of ‘zero-carbon’, energy consumption standards in standards consumption energy of ‘zero-carbon’, In pursuit of targets Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM) is a software tool developed by the BRE that Model (SBEM) is a software Simplified Building Energy *SAP is the UK Government’s Standard Assessment Procedure for energy rating of dwellings. for energy Assessment Procedure Standard *SAP is the UK Government’s Regulations. Every new house has to have a SAP SAP is a compulsory part of the UK Building on a scale of expressed performance of dwellings efficiency rating. SAP estimates the energy hot water heating and the better the rating. SAP predicts 1 to 100. The higher the number, of and control costs based on the insulation and airtightness of the house, and the efficiency (BREDEM) either Model Domestic Energy the heating system. The calculation uses the BRE’s by the approved SAP calculation programs by using a SAP worksheet or one of the approved BRE. buildings consumption. It is used for non-domestic energy an analysis of a building’s provides Performance of in support of the National Calculation Methodology (NCM) and the Energy (EPBD). The tool helps to determine CO Buildings Directive Increasingly buildings are designed using computer-based energy simula- energy using computer-based designed buildings are Increasingly per- and environmental energy predict to order tools in tion and prediction Assessment the Standard tools are UK, the official formance. In the Model (SBEM), and Building Energy (SAP) and the Simplified Procedure part of building reg- these tools have to be submitted as calculations using professionals introduced, Ever since these tools were ulations compliance. about them, and there industry have been grumbling and the construction actually perform in prac- a huge gap between how buildings is frequently as However, or SBEM predictions.* tice and what is submitted in the SAP submit- are the regulations that appear to comply with long as predictions who finds that they except the building occupant, ted, everyone is happy, is made to effort than they had expected! Some on energy spend more for instance by carrying once completed, assess whether buildings comply, while, this has become routine out blower door tests to check airtightness Often and building quality. design and does not do enough to improve it is failings once a building is completed, but the cost of to rectify hard means that this is not carried carrying out tests during construction out but this will not necessarily lead to bet- buildings continue to be tightened, better insulated buildings because the ter designed, better performing or not so much about objectives but UK construction industry is complaining, Applying technology to enhance quality of life sounds fine, but unless such such but unless fine, of life sounds quality enhance to technology Applying it may have scientific research independent by good work is underpinned devel- commercial is always to promote The intention effect. the opposite the and protects it benefits society of whether irrespective opment, independent little government-funded date, only a To environment. materials. and renewable of natural has gone in the development research in compliance with the UK Building Regulations. It is also used to generate Energy Performance in compliance with the UK Building Regulations. It is also used to generate Energy use of Certificates for non-domestic buildings under construction, for sale or let. SBEM makes It was data contained on associated databases and is available with other software. standard Performance of Non- originally based on the Dutch methodology NAN2916:1998 (Energy Residential Buildings) and has since been modified to comply with the CEN Standards. Energy simulation and calculation tools simulation and Energy . (US EERE (IES 2012) (Taylor 2008) (Taylor No renewable natural materials No renewable associated with the operation of 2 over 400 building energy software tools software over 400 building energy . (IES 2012). VE-Pro is a cutting-edge suite of building performance simulation tools. Used is VE-Pro under- the globe, it creates by leading sustainable design experts across design low-energy standing of the performance impacts of different strategies. According to this research, the actual CO to this research, According new housing could be more than twice as much as that predicted by SAP than twice as much as that predicted new housing could be more for this. The first is that SAP is not an several reasons are calculations. There energy not predict does modelling tool, and for various reasons effective demand accurately. There are over 30 listed in the UK with a growing number of tools that number over 30 listed in the UK with a growing are There While such tools can have their use, most fall short of a holistic approach A good critical analysis of SAP and SBEM systems is not easy to find of SAP and SBEM systems A good critical analysis In their downloadable Apache Tables, IES list all the insulation materials in In their downloadable Apache Tables, their database with conductivity figures. Apart from tools which are required as part of the UK Building Regulations, as part of the UK Building Regulations, required tools which are Apart from in buildings. The simulations tools concerned with energy many, are there lists US Department of Energy many omissions the world and even this list has throughout 2012). much wider that are building performance predictions claim to provide with CAD design tools. performance and can be integrated than energy For instance, IES is widely used: included are main and this limits their applicability to ecological designers. One of the by the Fraunhofer Institute exceptions to this rule is WUFI, a tool produced the inadequacies of tools like SBEM and SAP, claiming that they are unwork- they are that claiming SAP, and like SBEM of tools the inadequacies it is the tools about whether debate to be had interesting is an able. There it is In reality construction. of building the poor standard at fault or that are computer-based between is a disjuncture there both. However, probably using that buildings is little doubt There actual building practice. tools and and SBEM as SAP at a disadvantage, materials are renewable natural and materials and too assumptions about conventional have built into them bro- commercial drawn from U-values that are a dependence on great set of assumptions about is a predetermined The other problem chures. is preoccu- and other mechanical systems. SAP of heating the efficiency design. low energy and heating systems rather than pied with heating open to question. assumptions that are built-in weightings and are There mass while consid- loss is part of the calculation, thermal While fabric heat con- is a methodology more attention. This given sufficient is rarely ered, energy-efficient systems rather than designing cerned with heating buildings. about software concerned more are because SAP assessors themselves of the system. flaws than the fundamental inadequacies

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 158 Energy simulation and calculation tools 159 (Williamson 2010) (Fraunhofer 2012) reality’. Built environment simulation is steeped in an empiricist/positivist tradition, Built environment is essentially knowable and that the which assumes that the world ‘out there’ of the application is discoverable through of an external reality ‘true’ nature the methods of science. The assumption on which building performance sim- is the notion that it is possible for knowledge produced ulation is predicated closely an external the application of simulation to approximate through ‘ claims about simulation can lead to a spurious impression of accuracy and spurious impression claims about simulation can lead to a applications of simulation may Likewise, inappropriate legitimacy. therefore allocation of resources. decisions and an erroneous wrong in result The Task Group ‘Moisture Calculation’ established in 2000 within the Calculation’ established in 2000 within ‘Moisture Group The Task of Buildings and TC89 (Thermal Performance Committee Technical European the prerequisites is working on similar objectives. Thus Building Components) simulation methods in civil engi- of hygrothermal application for standardized both on a national and on an being devised are neering and architecture international level. For many, the use of such tools, is simply a practical means to an end, to the use of such tools, is simply a practical For many, that tools, Williamson argues In a brilliant critique of computer simulation He argues that, with the complexity of buildings and the built environment, that, with the complexity of buildings and the built environment, He argues real it is almost impossible to validate simulations with a perfect empirical to building experiment, but the authors and users of such tools choose answers. possibility that tools might be giving the wrong the ignore He explains that most discussion of tools focuses on the accuracy of the He explains that most discussion of the fundamental assumptions maths or algorithms, but that this overlooks behind the use of such tools. Given the problems and complexities associated with thermal modelling complexities associated with thermal and Given the problems on specialist consultants. increasingly tend to rely tools, designers do not necessarily professionals students and other building Architecture since building science and physics, as understand how to use these tools, not be taught in university been shown by the RAE, may has already cal- such prediction suppliers offer courses. Many insulation and materials their materials, and designers to supply culations as part of an agreement these. biases built into be accepting the commercial will therefore unlikely and they are or codes, for a building under regulations get approval assumptions that underpin such to consider the ethical and ideological tools. in Germany, which considers the importance of moisture in buildings and in buildings of moisture importance the considers which in Germany, has WUFI on thermal performance. effect can have a significant how this as it takes account materials and renewable for those using natural potential key issue for natural of materials, a characteristics of the hygroscopic materials. (BRE 2012) , poorly qualified (Williamson 2010) envirocrats Thin coat polymer modified render on ICF consisting of 2 sheets expanded Thin coat polymer modified render mm mm light steel C studs at 300 grade 200e joined with 100 polystyrene and with plasterboard infilled with in situ 65% GGBS C30 concrete centres, emulsion paint. A review of the proceedings of the IBPSA (the International Building Building International IBPSA (the of the the proceedings of A review almost no authors shows Conference Simulation Association) Performance analysis. At in simulation inherent of the uncertainties issues have addressed this important papers addressed no in Glasgow, Conference the 2009 IBPSA that simu- must realize and policy-makers practitioners Researchers, problem. with their which experts the kind of certainty to offer never pretend lation can offer. claim to or lesser credibility greater and with scientific knowledge Its possible to access the Green Guide (BRE 2012) ratings online. As you Its possible to access the Green assessors and expensive but questionable computer tools, the result is a tools, the result but questionable computer assessors and expensive The construc- carbon emissions. and reducing cynicism about sustainability and regulations even more to tion industry then becomes resistant to introduce which appears Adopting a holistic approach, requirements. more as yet is likely to be resisted, regulations, environmental even more tape. red to the uptake of natural and renew- Perhaps one of the biggest obstacles but acceptable method of rat- a robust able materials has been the lack of The Code for and products. impact of materials ing the environmental the and many other tools used around Sustainable Homes, BREEAM, LEED BREEAM and The Code use very weak on the issue of materials. world, are Guide to BRE, the Green by the the assessment system promoted many within the construction by Specification. This document is treated materials and yet it has been on the rating of industry as the last word in the past to give good rat- Guide’ has failed widely criticised. The ‘Green particularly insulations, friendly materials, ings to some environmentally products. embodied energy higher instead favouring petrochemical unac- as would regard and materials that many environmentalists Products based insulation materials get a much ceptable such as uPVC and foam better rating than some low impact materials. For do this, you will notice that almost everything gets an A or A star rating. formwork (ICF) gets instance a building system called insulated concrete building at the BRE innovation park has The ICF demonstration an A star. been demolished. It might seem reasonable for governments to set targets and regulations and regulations for governments to set targets It might seem reasonable rarely, are but if these targets consumption, energy for buildings to reduce give misleading informa- tools met and assessment and predictions if ever, knows whether so-called no one really where left in a situation tion, we are Instead with a plethora of complex can be achieved. carbon targets zero of tick box an army and standards, regulations Assessment of material‘s environmental impact and performance Assessment of material‘s environmental

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 160 Assessment of material‘s environmental impact and performance 161

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Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 162 Assessment of material‘s environmental impact and performance 163 (May 2009) of the many and compounded and compounded many of the of prejudice, trade restriction, com- restriction, trade of prejudice, legal issues unintended negative consequences negative unintended The In view of the foreseeable exhaustion of the reserves of fossil fuels and exhaustion of the reserves In view of the foreseeable flaws in methodology, particularly for good design, for overall environmental for overall environmental for good design, particularly flaws in methodology, and sys- products innovation in environmental buildings, and for impact of potentially serious tems. The added) (emphasis redress. petition and The BRE Green Guide follows LCA methods to some degree, though though LCA methods to some degree, Guide follows The BRE Green certifica- available is ‘Natureplus of these currently The most credible Box 6.1 Certification system The Natureplus – The International Association for Sustainable Building and Living the issuance of a quality eV – has set itself the goal through Natureplus the use of those building and accommodation prod- label of promoting especially suited to achieving the goal of economic ucts which are sustainability. is the only possible climate, such an approach the dangers to the earth’s The key to assessing the environmental impact of building materials is to impact of building the environmental The key to assessing how- analysis (LCA). LCAs can also be unreliable, life cycle apply a rigorous method is applied, and the the as they depend on how rigorously ever, an ISO LCAs should be carried out following included. are assumptions that depending on whether they but they vary, (ISO 14040:2006) standard is a sub- cradle. There gate, cradle to grave or cradle to consider cradle to can be on LCA methods but a useful overview stantial body of literature and Toxicology (Society of Environmental Europe found in a SETAC 2003). (SETAC Chemistry) publication. system which they have based on a weighting their final assessments are with a wide range of ‘experts’ claimed in the past is based on consultation LCAs have been commissioned by in the field. The majority of available their independence, even and this raises question about manufacturers, Product parties. The new EU Construction by third when prepared Declarations Product of Environmental Regulations and the likely increase specifiers architects, not likely to change this. Few hard-pressed (EPDs) are or the inclination to wade likely to have the time and their clients are decisions about mate- making detailed LCAs or even EPDs before through the crude ratings of dubious about choices, so if they are rial and product systems. Guide they may look to other the BRE Green Germany in 2002 and has been widely tion’. This is a system that began in of natural and renewable of quite a number adopted by the manufacturers some of the RHP case used in The Pavatex products, material products. with LCAs and EPDs, certification. As have Natureplus study projects, but it does producers, product certification is paid for by the Natureplus of with a good degree system and rigorous appear to be a very credible formed Alliance has been adopted by the recently Natureplus transparency. (ASBP 2012). for Sustainable Building Products importance (source: http://www. (source: Natureplus Basic Criteria Natureplus insulated and more airtight, handling moisture and ventilation airtight, handling moisture insulated and more The Natureplus Quality Label is an award for building products for building products an award Label is Quality The Natureplus 1 environmental is classified as a Type Quality Label The Natureplus the Extract from With high humidity in particular, water can condense on cold surfaces With high humidity in particular, solution the main proposed efficiency energy For advocates of extreme natureplus.org/en/natureplus/issuance-guidelines/). means to ensure sustainable and socially equitable development. For development. equitable socially and sustainable to ensure means application of the use and promoting sector this means the building of fossil the consumption which help to minimise products building limited resources. fuels and by exhibiting the of sustainability the highest standards which meet and health of quality in terms of the environment best possible levels are group in a particular product Only the best products functionality. all build- to act as an orientation for in order eligible for certification of a culture the promotion towards and consumers ing professionals Label Quality As a benchmark the Natureplus of sustainable building. in a product 20% of the products than more to should not be awarded group. accord- the whole of Europe and is valid across label as per ISO 14024 to be for a product The pre-requirements ing to uniform criteria. perfor- its especially high Quality Label are the Natureplus awarded and sustainability. environment mance characteristics in terms of the minimi- the resources: of limited The main focus is on the protection sustainable raw mate- substances, sation of the use of petrochemical methods. production rial extraction/harvesting and resource-efficient raw materials raw renewable made from building products Therefore secondary or from unlimited in their availability materials which are for certification. raw materials will be favoured A key factor, which is frequently left out of simulation tools, energy assess- left out of simulation tools, energy which is frequently A key factor, issue in terms of building phys- ratings, but a key ments and environmental materials, and particularly insulation, ics and science, is the way in which a fundamental damp is from Keeping buildings free cope with moisture. this was Initially and is a crucial part of building regulations. requirement of driving rain through water and penetration simply about avoiding ground of condensation is also crucial. and openings, but the problem walls roofs, The which is a serious health hazard. and lead to mould growth, any of ventilation to allow moist air to escape should be a key part of can become trapped in the fabric of moisture building design. However, buildings leading to (interstitial condensation) and as buildings become better crucial. becomes even more is to use mechanical ventilation and heat recovery to deal with moisture the (MVHR) systems. Mechanical ventilation normally uses electricity and so Moisture and breathability and thermal mass and breathability Moisture

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 164 Moisture and breathability and thermal mass 165

are are ® solutions that solutions (Pro Clima 2012) (Pro To exclude the likelihood of structural damage and mould growth, it is exclude the likelihood of structural damage and mould growth, To The Difference between Conventional Technology and the new INTELLO: To and the new INTELLO: To between Conventional Technology The Difference on reducing is to concentrate structural damage, the usual approach prevent stress. moisture to concentrate on the dry- stress, considering moisture advisable, apart from with a high drying capacity and a ing capacity of a structural system. Systems by vapour membranes/ as provided stress, in moisture simultaneous reduction like INTELLO permeability, with a humidity-variable diffusion retarders still very safely and reliably protected against structural damage even if sub- against structural protected still very safely and reliably stress.” jected to unanticipated moisture Having stored hemp flax, wood fibre and sheep’s wool in an old damp and sheep’s hemp flax, wood fibre Having stored Most building fabric solutions in the UK involve the use of plastic vapour solutions in the UK involve the use Most building fabric they are to Gortex coats in that compared membranes are Breather (so-called intelligent) mem- sophisticated In view of these risks, more It is not easy to understand how the ‘humidity-variable diffusion permeabil- It is not easy to understand how the ‘humidity-variable diffusion ity’ of the INTELLO membranes actually work in practice, but their litera- Natural renewable to the drying capacity of structures. refers also ture materials, materials have such a ‘drying capacity’ in that, as hygroscopic and Synthetic fibre moisture. absorb and then release they can, in theory, foam insulation materials do not have this capacity and cannot absorb without losing their insulation capacity. moisture the translucent condensation drips off where second-hand haulage container, heat recovery is meant to offset this, though the effectiveness of this is still this is still of effectiveness the this, though to offset is meant recovery heat of innovative also a range are for debate. There a matter sys- heating warmed through air intake is fresh trialled where have been extracts sensitive mechanical fabric. Humidity even the building tems or up the only speeding the use of electricity be used, that minimise can also or baths. Where cooking, showers rises from rate when humidity extraction in buildings, some kind of and humidity deal of moisture is a great there old system of trickle seems unavoidable and the mechanical ventilation effi- levels of energy is no longer practicable when high vents in windows windows those of us who advocate opening are There required. ciency are a very energy is not usually considered but this air (Purging) to let in fresh get left open! practice if the windows efficient permeable. So-called can be both impermeable and barriers, and these to reduce the 1980s in an effort in introduced membranes were ‘breather’ that as levels is concern condensation, but there the risks of interstitial of membranes may not breather and air tightness increase, insulation cope as effectively. is no sub- There to escape. but allow body heat and moisture showerproof are as yet, but there membranes of breather stantial evidence of failures of water condensing on the designs examples, especially in cold roof onto the insulation below. underside of membranes and dripping used in conjunction with a great are branes have been developed and these good levels of air- to try to ensure deal of ‘sticky tape’ to seal all the joints Clima: these membranes is INTELLO Pro tightness. One of the best known of building (Hens 2007) Introduction to Introduction (Szokolay 2007) This classic book should be studied eathability, hygroscopic materials or thermal mass, though there is a there materials or thermal mass, though hygroscopic eathability, Foams sometimes experience an irreversible deformation as a result of the deformation as a result Foams sometimes experience an irreversible fluctuations in the and vapour pressure combined actions of temperature by interstitial condensation is responsi- which enters the pores Water pores. ble for the latter. Unfortunately even Szokolay does not deal with the performance of Unfortunately even Szokolay does not deal with the performance However, if such materials are sealed up in structures or with finishes that or sealed up in structures if such materials are However, because they assume for many professionals concept This is a difficult text- in the standard little information on these issues can be found Very impacts on the into moisture body of research is a growing In fact, there Architectural Science Architectural proper- by all those who wish to understand how thermal and other related complex than is much more ties of building actually function. The picture that used as the basis for SAP or SBEM calculations. helpful in but it is extremely materials in terms of moisture hygroscopic understanding the dynamic thermal performance of insulations and accessible summary of moisture A more discussed below. fabrics, which are However, Hens’ highly technical book, containing hundreds of building Hens’ highly technical book, containing hundreds However, the basis for calculations and computer physics equations, that provide and others wishing to access simple simulations, is not helpful for architects useful is Szokolay’s applications for building design. More plastic roof, it is clear after two or three years that the natural materials do not materials the natural that years three two or is clear after it roof, plastic sign of mould growth is no do get wet. There if they and they recover suffer, is even if there in buildings be similar performance should there Thus either. to able are the materials providing present, and dampness high humidity of natural nature of the hygroscopic out. This is because and dry breathe and absorb moisture of a material to is the ability Hygroscopicity materials. not normally ratings for materials are it again. Hygroscopicity then release published. permeability is sometimes on moisture given, but information related. not the same, though they are are Permeability and hygroscopicity The whole fabric struc- rot. from can also suffer then they cannot breathe has to be breathable. ture mate- synthetic if they become damp whereas will rot that natural materials materials, if left soak- is no doubt that natural There safer in water. rials are detailed building, will period, due to a flood or badly ing in water for a long this would apply to most building materials. but suffer, physics or building science. One of thebooks and technical guides on building textbooks (Pohl 2011) gives building science best and most comprehensive an to thermal issues in buildings and also the basic introduction excellent perme- mention moisture but amazingly it doesn’t sustainability, concepts of br ability, brief section Pohl draws attention to the lack of research on condensation. in this area. in the one of the leading figures performance of materials. Hens (2007), materials but he does point renewable field, does not deal with natural or cope well with water. out that synthetic materials do not

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 166 Moisture and breathability and thermal mass 167 Breathability Breathability (http://www. . Buffering humidity in buildings can be very . Buffering buffering Vapour resistance Vapour : adapted from May, N. 16/04/2005: N. 16/04/2005: May, : adapted from is the ability of materials to absorb and release water and release is the ability of materials to absorb Matters: The Key to Building Performance Matters: The Key to natural-building.co.uk/PDF/Case%20Studies/Breathability_ 5.5.12. in_buildings.pdf). Accessed Table 6.3 6.3 Table R-factor some typical materials: for resistance Vapour coat plasterSynthetic top Clay plaster with foil foam Polyurethane insulation boardsWoodfibre wool insulationsMineral wool, flax, sheep’s Source 6 1500 10,000 25 40 Materials that are hygroscopic and also have thermal mass can absorb hygroscopic Materials that are Vapour permeability is a key issue in understanding how materials per- permeability is a key issue in understanding Vapour Hygroscopicity vapour (which is a gas) as relative humidity changes in the surrounding air. air. changes in the surrounding humidity vapour (which is a gas) as relative thus vapour permea- (and are sizes Some materials which have high pore behav- and hygroscopic Porosity water vapour. ble) lack the ability to retain is very bricks absorb moisture deal. The way iour of materials varies a great absorption timber for instance. The speed of water vapour from different wool insulation, as sheep’s Some materials, such also varies significantly. is a limit to how much there vapour quite quickly but can absorb moisture conditions. its capacity is normally fine for most However, can be retained. has particular charac- and hemp can also cope with moisture, Hempcrete to retain The capacity of materials discussed below. teristics in this regard, in this way means that they can help to manage humidity and this moisture to as if often referred risks from useful in terms of maintaining good indoor health and reducing which defines how A further factor to consider is capillarity, mould growth. the material handles liquid water. than says a lightweight insulation material. This has been moisture more why the advocates long understood for earth buildings and is one reason earth and straw) construction claim that it has of ‘cob’ (handmade from If poor. health benefits even though the thermal insulation is theoretically humidity is in the ideal range of 40–60% in a building, comfort will improve. and breathability issues can be found in several papers by Neil May of be found in several papers by issues can and breathability May published on the Internet. While (NBT), Natural Building Technologies of he is also a student of selling natural materials for NBT, is in the business 2009). his papers (May much can be learned from building science and both insulations and through molecules can pass form in buildings. Water permeability of such materials. While solid materials, depending on the systems, it is ventilations will pass out of a building through most moisture permeability of the building fab- also important to understand the vapour moisture to in terms of the resistance permeability is measured ric. Vapour less permeable the material. the (R-factor). The bigger the R-figure, syn- as are highly resistant, paints are Synthetic plasters and plastic (acrylic) 6.3). (see Table thetic dense foams like polyurethane

branes moisture. (Knauf Insulation 2012) Moisture Resistance Tests by the British Board of Agrément confirm that of Agrément by the British Board Resistance Tests Moisture Insulation will not transmit water to the inner leaf. Nor will Supafil Cavity Wall below DPC or from the cavity by capillary action across they transmit moisture conducted for the research level. This has been confirmed by independent does not add to which shows that cavity wall insulation Trust, Saving Energy the risk of water penetration. Synthetic acrylic paints are sometimes referred to as breathable, but to as breathable, sometimes referred Synthetic acrylic paints are traditional masonry cavities are likely to be found where are Problems Buildings constructed from largely synthetic materials with plastic mem- plastic with materials synthetic largely from constructed Buildings and thus ‘vapour open’ which are those, are materials to use The ideal to ensure have been mainly concerned regulations Construction industry Breathability is a much misunderstood term and makes little sense unless is a much misunderstood term Breathability hygroscopicity. permeability and in terms of moisture carefully measured It has building in in discussion of ecological been loosely bandied around understanding by a careful needs to be underpinned the past but really as lime plasters and renders, science and physics. Materials such of building depending may vary significantly assumed to be breathable, which are materials have and hygroscopic Breathable on what lime is used and how. is absorbed moisture where in construction build-ups to be used carefully is then where able to escape. Tightly sealed forms of construction, even with interstitial condensation used, can end up vapour open materials are problems. when asked, the majority of companies selling paints, plasters and other is vapour permeable, or tell you whether their product materials can rarely or give you a rating. On the other hand some modern finishes and paints the such as clay paints or silicate external coatings, will come with details of permeability/vapour open characteristics. built up cannot escape. fully filled with insulation, as any moisture of buildings such as injecting insulation into existing cavities Retrofitting plastic air tight mem non breathable Where may be also a risky activity. branes and finishes, as is the case in many new buildings, cannot buffer cannot buffer new buildings, the case in many finishes, as is branes and con- air, at extracting moist effective ventilation is very and unless humidity, easily. can build up more growth and hence mould densation to buffer abilities good hygroscopic but also have permeable, moisture as as vapour open insulation materials are Thus mineral wool humidity. abilities and cannot buffer wool, but have low hygroscopic sheep’s or allow water to penetrate to absorb moisture not able that materials are get they can where they may be used in high-risk areas into a building, as their water marketed on the basis of materials are wet. Thus synthetic This has risk locations this may be valuable. and in some high resistance than deal- out rather think in terms of keeping moisture lead designers to buildings. inside ing with it effectively Breathability

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 168 Breathability 169 (Heath 2009) (Kingspan 2009) , cited this study stating that , cited this study stating be a key factor in choosing insulation materials. be a key factor in choosing insulation should not Breathable constructions and the breathability of insulation products are are products of insulation constructions and the breathability Breathable herring in the a complete red they are in reality at best a side show, therefore and exacerbated dust mite avoidance of surface condensation, mould growth populations. Breathability Breathability Instead looking at the longevity of the thermal performance of different insu- thermal performance of different Instead looking at the longevity of the added) (emphasis lation materials is the key. There is a great deal of misunderstanding about breathability, for instance deal of misunderstanding about breathability, great is a There This is a complex and complicated aspect of natural building and yet of natural building aspect complex and complicated This is a to deny the impor- an attempt by Kingspan insulation A good example is An interesting example of questionable ‘information’ about polyurethane example of questionable ‘information’ about polyurethane An interesting 2012) even website (PU Europe insulation can be found on a PU Europe claiming that it leads to ‘healthier buildings’. the Kevin McCloud of Grand Designs, when asked about his support for important, (see Chapter 5) said that in use was more idea that energy breathable’ insulation is ‘marginally urethane This has led others to deny the significance of breathability and support the of breathability This has led others to deny the significance preferable are synthetic materials that higher embodied energy argument in this book. elsewhere materials, as discussed to natural renewable an image in by using Kingspan have commented on breathability However, data provided herring! Kingspan showing a red a document they produced the vast majority of moist air in that to CAR, which was then used to prove leakage, and that vapour open by ventilation and air buildings is removed this. The CAR paper remains only a small contribution to walls provide materials and is a useful of breathable inconclusive about the contribution fails to mention hygroscopic- discussion of the issues, though it completely researchers is discussed by the Cambridge The issue of mould growth ity. with conclusions as to its relationship in general terms but they come to no Kingspan say However, breathability. are used with natural materials they may be a risk of condensation. There There of condensation. be a risk they may materials natural with used are has become damp wool insulation sheep’s where circumstances have been likely more it’s wool, whereas the sheep’s of as a failure regarded and this is to breathe construction of the whole and an inability faulty detailing properly. on very little help technical guidance provide and building regulations likely to in buildings are problems and moisture these issues. Dampness effi- airtight and energy become more serious as buildings become more has much to and materials industry construction cient. The mainstream issues. learn about these commissioned from which they based on research tance of breathability, 2008). Heath, writing in (CAR ) (Brown Research Cambridge Architectural Building Magazine Green (May undated) (McCloud 2011) (McCloud …natural fibre insulations … will actively absorb up to 10% of their mass …natural fibre with only 1% with This compares volume as water in changing humidities. plastic insulations of any sort. mineral wool insulation, and none with I am not dogmatically ‘pro’ or against natural materials just as I am not dog- I am not just as materials natural or against ‘pro’ not dogmatically I am in many matters Breathability against synthetic materials. or ‘pro’ matically foam is not something Urethane durability. but so does cases in construction and serves a pur- breathable house but it is marginally having in my I relish spaces. pose in tight Recent experiments in a climate chamber at the Centre for Alternative at the Centre Recent experiments in a climate chamber materials, is counter- This, like so many aspects of natural and renewable Mass and moisture levels are important in understanding the thermal per- important in understanding levels are Mass and moisture is some evidence that wall fabric. There formance of insulation and building perform better materials constructions using natural renewable and roof materials because of their ability than similar constructions using synthetic to deal with moisture. 2012) show and Eshrar (Tucker being carried out by Tucker Technology been corre- thermal performance has where results some very interesting com- were When natural insulation materials humidity. lated with relative water of high humidity, (MMMF) in conditions with manmade fibres, pared but climate chamber with the MMMF, condensation was observed in the Thermal moisture. able to handle the extra wool were hemp and sheep’s wet, insulation performance appears to deteriorate when MMMFs become but this is not the case with some natural materials; indeed, the thermal is pre- slightly when additional moisture performance may even improve heat and so the sent. This may be because water is a good medium to store can also appear to hold insulation materials, if they can handle moisture, heat for longer. intuitive, because we have been taught that water is bad for building mate- in hotbox tests in a completely dry rials. Thermal conductivity is measured situation. This is why R- and U-values can be highly misleading because how the conditions that do not reflect based on tests in unrealistic they are A key factor in the ability of materials to handle moisture is their mass as is ability of materials to handle moisture A key factor in the materials seem to perform characteristics. Natural well as their hygroscopic better than synthetic products. McCloud explained in an email that his company HAB had commissioned a in an email that his company HAB McCloud explained materials in ret- of breathable at the role Rye looking study by Dr Caroline to pressures study is important because of old buildings. This rofitting historic buildings. insulation in old and increase Thermal mass and energy performance in buildings and energy Thermal mass

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 170 Thermal mass and energy performance in buildings 171 (BBA 2012) (Pilkington 2008) Heat losses from the probe’s open end and the material adjacent to it were adjacent to it were open end and the material the probe’s Heat losses from values being obtained for building insula- reliable prevent shown to currently tion materials. it is important to ensure that any test samples used are constructed in a form constructed in a form any test samples used are that it is important to ensure per- on site, otherwise apparent of actual use of the product representative in the building. that which will actually be obtained formance could exceed The only way to assess how effective a building is thermally is to measure is thermally is to measure a building The only way to assess how effective the performance of insulation and wall builds- A crucial factor that affects of Thermal mass is important because building fabric has the possibility The British Board of Agrément warns of this when carrying out guarded out guarded when carrying warns of this of Agrément Board The British It may seem heretical to say so, but it could be suggested that figures for be suggested that figures to say so, but it could It may seem heretical guide to how rough than a nothing more thermal conductivity provide and specifiers who base their materials might perform. Those architects wall build-ups on U-values supplied by choice of insulation materials and as con- why, reason deluding themselves. This is one are manufacturers few buildings actu- so University, firmed in the work at Leeds Metropolitan in practice. targets ally meet the predicted over a period of time such as in the performance of a completed building in empty buildings. The best way to a coheating test with fewer variables a series of identical houses or performance would be to build compare and weather conditions) using different buildings (all with the same aspect them over time. materials and compare buildings is thermal mass. Most insulation materials, especially ups in real lightweight and have very little thermal mass or the abil- synthetic ones, are Many natural insula- their mass by absorbing water vapour. ity to increase mostly hygroscopic. also lightweight though they are are tion products have some thermal mass and hemp lime, as insulation boards fibre Wood used in many of the case studies, has significant thermal mass. helping to retain storing heat and letting it back into the building slowly, when lightweight warmth and thermal comfort. This issue became apparent However, hotbox tests are not able to simulate real conditions in buildings conditions real not able to simulate hotbox tests are However, might per- as an indication of how a material treated and should only be to assess actual in an effort buildings can be carried out on real form. Tests sensors and Various but these can also be unreliable. thermal performance data loggers, and over time measure- used in walls, linked to are probes be can happening. Probes indication of what is really ments can give an with the not fully in contact if they are giving false readings very unreliable 2010) assessing. (Pilkington et al. material they are materials will perform in real buildings. Hotbox tests can be constructed to to be constructed tests can Hotbox buildings. in real perform will materials etc. cold bridging dampness, humidity, but even then walls real simulate test protocols. standard not part of the are B 6946: 2007, Annex to BS EN ISO hot box tests (Morton 2005) the difference in internal relative humidity from what could be expected in what could be expected humidity from in internal relative the difference these conditions indicates a mod- conventional domestic construction under surface to the ability of the large erating influence that could be attributed to changing in response moisture clays to absorb and release unfired of areas conditions. Thermal mass is often linked to solar gain. At one time it was seen to beThermal mass is often linked to solar gain. At one time it was seen to industry got very excited a few years ago The cement and concrete In order to understand this it is necessary to realise that heat is actually that heat is actually it is necessary to realise to understand this In order Scotland, an important experiment in Perthshire, Morton carried out Thermal mass is not only important in terms of retaining heat but also in in terms of retaining Thermal mass is not only important mass can be added to a building terms of keeping buildings cool. Thermal this can also be achieved using earth (Morton 2008), but by using unfired which also and wood fibre materials such as hemp, hempcrete renewable insulation. provide losean advantage to use a lot of south-facing glazing (even though this will solar gain which can then heat in the winter) so that the house can capture within any thermal mass in the building. This sounds good in the- be stored the amount in place to regulate works when systems are ory but only really of solar gain. and many about thermal mass being a good selling point for their products, heat or to store structures have since tried to use heavy concrete architects timber frame construction became popular and it was realised that houses houses that it was realised and popular became construction frame timber no the day and out during when people were very quickly cooled down the If the house later. to warm up was needed on. Extra energy heating was been should have the warmth well then surely had been working insulation synthetic with lightweight the case in buildings is rarely but this retained which has frame industry, a worry for the timber materials. This is insulation to confused to how but they seem to remain this as an issue, recognised 2012). (UKTFA the problems address place that is it is the speed at which this takes insulation and lost through is a factor of its performance. Thermal conductivity crucial in understanding properties. time as well as insulating insulation. In timber clad house with cellulose he had designed a where clay thermal mass unfired of heat and provide to slow down the loss order the timber frame internally with a clay included in were bricks, made locally, the ther- improve only did the thermal mass of the earth plaster finish. Not The walls buffer. as a moisture mal performance but it was also successful not able to U-value. They were performed 30% better than the predicted much this was due to the thermal mass make definitive conclusions on how of the house was weakened by but observed that the overall performance and humidity Logging temperature thermal mass in the roof. insufficient lag but also moisture deal of data on thermal a great over a year provided also ventilation and occupant behaviour were performance. Weather, in the house was a complete absence of condensation There recorded. concluded that: and the researchers humidity, despite high levels of relative

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 172 Thermal mass and energy performance in buildings 173 . (emphasis added) woodland_trust_hq.aspx http://www.thisisconcrete.co.uk/case_studies/ http://www.thisisconcrete.co.uk/case_studies/ Precast concrete panels were bolted onto the ceiling, covering 50% and act- panels were concrete Precast This BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rated building designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley This BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rated building that is architec- a solution to provide Studios combines timber and concrete and performs both structurally and thermally. turally interesting thermal mass to a a novel solution to providing ing as thermal radiators and are panels absorb exposed concrete building. During the daytime the timber-frame high- through At night, air is introduced radiant cooling effect. heat and provide for the next day ready level windows to cool the concrete It is generally understood that to renovate masonry buildings by placing It is generally understood that to renovate The assumption was based on an influential report by Arup (2004) from by Arup (2004) from report on an influential was based The assumption Students of vernacular and traditional buildings, especially those in warm Students of vernacular and traditional particularly made from structures, countries will know that heavy masonry when it is very hot cool air move- earth, can keep buildings cool, though masonry traditional Heavy natural ventilation is also necessary. ment from stay warm in the winter but earth or stone can also buildings made from Once thermal mass cools down it can generally need a steady heat input. (Minke 2006). heat is required then radiate ‘coolth’ and more heat – is the insulation on the outside – so that the thermal mass can retain this is often not pos- way to insulate buildings. However, efficient the more The solution is to use sible if the external appearance has to be retained. insulation and wall build-ups that include both insulation and thermal mass. has significant benefits as it has the hemp lime/hempcrete This is where both insulation and thermal ability in one form of construction to provide a mass. Crude U-values for hemp lime would suggest that it is not such effec- good insulator and yet hemp lime buildings appear to function more earth brick house did. tively than might be expected just as the Perthshire This is partly because of the thermal mass effect. cool buildings at night by evening out temperature fluctuations but this but this fluctuations temperature out by evening at night buildings cool concept. to be a questionable proved build- for concrete savings significant energy industry claimed which the on com- based were (ASBL 2007) published most of the figures ings, but It took a buildings in practice. assessment of rather than puter simulations struc- lag associated with heavy masonry that the thermal while to realise to fit with the 24 hour cycle of weather time has too slow a response tures the to provide responsive sufficiently may not be Concrete and occupancy. blunt Thus thermal mass can be a when required. right thermal conditions as hemp- unless you have a material such to manage instrument and hard of the most curious recent Perhaps one responsive. that is more crete Trust for thermal mass is at the Woodland of concrete examples of the use it seems timber, from that the building was constructed HQ building. Given that to the ceilings, meaning concrete to bolt precast somewhat perverse of the to cope with the weight be even stronger had to the timber structure It is not known whether the architects 2012) (This is concrete concrete. of including thermal as an alternative way earth or hempcrete considered mass.

2 (Szokolay 2007) 2 in the brick wall each small layer of the material will absorb some heat before material will absorb some heat before in the brick wall each small layer of the heat would then be emit- The stored it can transmit any heat to the next layer. ted with a considerable time delay. This concept of the time lag or ‘decrement delay’ is crucial to under- This concept of the time lag or ‘decrement used in France for 20 years, there As hemp lime construction has been as a wet system and have some limitations While hemp lime structures The building physics of this is well explained by Szokolay (2007) even of this is well explained by Szokolay The building physics He explains that stored heat in the brick can flow back into the building heat in the brick can He explains that stored this cannot happen with the polystyrene. whereas of buildings. Information on materials standing the thermal performance factor as well give the decrement and construction build-ups should always most lightweight U-value. However, as the thermal conductivity or and do little to even out tem- factor insulations have a poor decrement physics and technical in most building fluctuations. This is ignored perature guidance. by university research carried out has been a significant amount of research Much of this in the UK and Germany. institutes, mainly in France but also of building to above in areas some of the issues referred has addressed physics and science. being non- many advantages. Apart from with drying out, they also provide both thermal and durable they can also provide strong resistant, toxic, fire insulation. The solid composite walls (and it is also mass and reasonable few materi- Very and hygroscopic. breathable are used in floors and roofs) It is possible to als or composite solutions can do this in such a simple way. this combine lightweight insulations with heavy thermal mass materials but energy as combining the two into one material. Where is not as effective as expected this can constructions do not perform as effectively efficient and be explained by the complication of too many layers and components that should not occur with hemp lime buildability issues. This is a problem if it is built properly. Hemp lime masonry is able to retain heat as well as preventing it escaping. heat as well as preventing to retain masonry is able Hemp lime shown that its others have and Technology out by Lime carried Tests (with minimal and thus temperatures with a 24-hour cycle time fits response fluctua- temperature despite significant same internally the remain heating) to lift and energy in a house it takes very little additional tions outside. Thus at a comfortable level. temperature maintain the internal He explains the dynamic hempcrete. have come across though he would not the thermal of ‘capacitive insulation’, how of buildings in terms response He heat flow. of a delaying action on has the effect capacity of materials and says that while of periodic heat flow analysis explains the importance U-values their mm brick wall have identical and a 220 mm of polystyrene 10 kg/m The brick wall has a density of 375 is quite different. thermal behaviour kg/m only 5 the polystyrene whereas Building physics research into hempcrete into research physics Building

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 174 Building physics research into hempcrete 175 Hemp lime is an inherently porous material because of the microscopic material because of the microscopic porous Hemp lime is an inherently porosity of both hemp shives and binder mix and the macroscopic porosity There is plenty of practical and anecdotal knowledge of how hemp lime how hemp of knowledge anecdotal and of practical is plenty There also are but there based on simulations using WUFI, Some work is still association, Construire-en-chanvre France has a hemp construction and technical infor- scientific results The importance of this work is that moisture thermal resistance, between The exploration of the relationship is effective as a building solution and understanding of this, in terms of of this, in terms and understanding building solution as a is effective in the at Bath University Research is growing. physics and science, building to in Belgium has begun and in Louvain Rennes in France and UK, in Lyons this remark- characteristics of performance and the unique piece together suc- carried out by a work has also been Some interesting able composite. Alternative for and PhD students at the Centre cession of Masters Dublin. College, at Trinity and Graduate School in Wales Technology buildings. The main commercial real data from based on empirical results (Lime and Lhoist lime in the UK, Lime Technology developers of hemp also invested in certification through 2012) (LHOIST 2012), have Technology rig- significant other institutions, and this has required LABC and BBA and an that hemp lime walls have tests have demonstrated testing. Fire orous has assessed some structural Bath University resistance. excellent fire of the hemp shiv size and France, the importance issues, and in Belgium acoustic issues have been analysed. and structure and content, moisture, bibliography on hemp 2012). Its website includes a 100-entry (Chanvre Some of this technical research. construction and information on other 2011 in Darmstadt in November at a conference was presented research in English is also available in a bibliography (Bath 2012). A comprehensive commissioned by the in Ireland for hemp lime major study of the prospects a detailed includes Association. This report Protection Irish Environmental requirements regulation between building discussion of the relationship lime construction is now well (Daly 2012). Hemp and hemp lime standards and many other countries. An established in the USA. Canada, Australia confer- ‘association’ has organised Irish based international hemp building 2012). and Spain (IHBA ences and workshops in Ireland rivalled by strawbale construc- now available to an extent only mation are the Alliance for Sustainable Building tion. With the establishment of information on other scientific and technical (ASBP 2012), more Products available. readily should become more products natural and renewable in terms of beginning to yield results content and permeability issues is of natural materials. Hemp is par- understanding the thermal performance deal of moisture as it seems able to absorb a great ticularly interesting that it can dry out again. Water provided without significant risk of decay, because the lime binder content absorption is part of the curing process, carbonation, but the water content also plays through has to gain strength a part in the thermal capacity and mass of the material. Air pockets within but the composite, inside the hemp contribute to the insulation properties, vary as is needed to fully understand how the thermal properties research these air pockets become saturated. (Daly 2012) √s). 2 . Hemp lime materials can absorb materials can absorb . Hemp lime vol and 73% vol √s) and 0.15 kg/(m √s) and 0.15 2 particle size of the hemp shiv and dust content mixed in with the shiv fibre it goes into the mixer whether the shiv is dry or wet when used – some use a pre-formulated the formulation of the lime binder their own while others produce manufacturers, commercial binder from mix on site whether other aggregates of hemp to lime binder and the proportions added like sand are is used placing …what sort of mixer before how the mix is prepared shuttering, using permanent how the hemp is placed, into temporary shuttering, whether it is sprayed in the shuttering tamping or compaction of the composite the amount of water that is used applied finishes are out before how long the wall is allowed to dry moisture and allow water vapour to move through the building fabric. the building move through water vapour to and allow moisture between 4.50 and 7.68 in range vapour resistance dry of reported Measures of hemp lime values absorption coefficient values of 4.80. Water with typical kg/(m 0.075 range between resulting from the arrangement of particles. Measures of total porosity out- porosity of total Measures of particles. the arrangement from resulting between 71.1% lined ranged There are a significant number of variables in the performance of hemp a significant number of variables in the performance are There and builders, who have tried Some experiments carried out by architects

Work at the University of Rennes (Collet 2011) has compared the perfor- has compared University of Rennes (Collet 2011) at the Work and found that, with and cast (or moulded) hemp lime mance of sprayed so far are but results porous may be a little more spraying, the composite performance between different in the difference on inconclusive. Research Hemp and Lyons. has also been carried out in Rennes lime formulations added can achieve and with aggregates density lime walls with greater performance this is at the expense of thermal but quite high strengths been and shape of hemp shiv have also in size Variation (Hirst et al. 2010). 2011). analysed (Picandet to in France: as it is referred concrete t t t t t t t t t t wool and sheep’s hemp fibre fibre, While other materials such as wood hemp lime composite has much the solid properties have hygroscopic hemp lime However, self-strength. thermal mass and much greater greater depending on what is used. materials and mixes can vary considerably, but it should not be assumed that significant These and other variables are this makes hemp lime masonry too complicated. As scientific research the above, the specifier and builder to each of clarifies the best approach to mix, materials and processes can get the best advice as to the correct use. have Lime Technology, materials from to avoid using the certified Tradical for hempcrete standards where particularly in Ireland run into problems, too have not been in place. For instance, some have used hemp containing

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 176 Building physics research into hempcrete 177 W α (Daly 2012) correspond to 0.07 W/(mK), and higher to 0.07 correspond 3 correspond to 0.05–0.06 W/(mK), medium to 0.05–0.06 correspond 3 correspond to 0.11–0.12 W/(mK). to 0.11–0.12 correspond 3 W. (Daly 2012). W. α density mixes of 450–550 kg/m density mixes of 450–550 Thermal conductivity values for hemp lime wall infill range between 0.05 and Thermal conductivity values for hemp lime on the density and composition of the mix. Low den- W/(mK) depending 0.12 kg/m sity mixes of about 220–275 density mixes of about 300–350 kg/m density mixes of about 300–350 Such analyses of ‘dynamic’ thermal performance can begin to explain Such analyses of ‘dynamic’ thermal performance can begin to explain Saving money through sourcing locally processed hemp is attractive but is attractive hemp locally processed sourcing through Saving money being mixed with should be soaked before that the hemp Others argue is the use of hemp lime blocks but this has been done on Some research in hemp lime properties has demonstrated excellent acoustic Research There is still much work to be done to assess and understand thermal is still much work to be done to assess There However, crude R- or U-values in themselves do not explain how hemp lime crude R- or U-values in themselves do not explain However, has WUFI simulation software in Belgium using will perform. Research (Evrard and moisture between thermal changes the relationship measured 2005 and 2006). dif- how an unusual material composite like hemp lime can be completely The thermal on steady state U-value figures. based predictions from ferent the mass of the material evens out the heating up and cooling down of inside hemp building fabric to such a successful extent that temperatures fluc- constant despite significant temperature largely lime buildings remain tuations outside. Because of this hemp lime is being widely used for build- °C can of 14 A steady temperature stored. ings in which food and wine are be maintained without any heating or cooling input thus saving significantly bills (Arnaud 2009). on energy much fibre, because the shiv and fibre have not been separated. This tends This tends been separated. have not fibre shiv and the because fibre, much take significantly and can therefore water more and hold much to absorb to be the has confirmed this work in France dry out. Scientific longer to case. fibres separating shiv and at may be less effective machinery smaller-scale been mixed the hemp has also some cases in Ireland (‘decortication’). In lead- have been used, renders lime and inappropriate with cheap hydrated in is some benefit and not drying out. There damp ing to walls remaining but not for in the mix for hemp lime plasters being included some fibre solid insulating walls. water is used. slow down the drying out if too much lime. This may also with strong, of the material as the wall is not as use not the most effective a solid wall is much between the blocks. Casting the need to use mortar (Lanos for infill can be used in some circumstance bocks However, simpler. and Collet 2011). and transmission. On-site acoustic test- walls, in terms of sound absorption dB for separation walls of hemp of 57–58 ing has shown sound reduction values range between 0.3 and 1 lime mix. Reported sound absorption properties of hemp lime. Reviewing the available literature in the Irish EPA in the Irish EPA literature of hemp lime. Reviewing the available properties so far is listed: what has been reported study, with an average value of 0.7

(Braubach 2011) dampness. In addition to bioaerosols, indoor dampness may result in elevated concen- indoor dampness may result In addition to bioaerosols, chemical increased chemicals as well as volatile organic trations of microbial phthalates emissions of building materials, such as The WHO do at least identify the problem of formaldehyde but say noth- The WHO do at least identify the problem Interest in healthy buildings receives little attention through organisa- little attention through receives in healthy buildings Interest on dampness and mould narrowly WHO work has tended to focus The ability of natural materials to buffer humidity and help to create health- and help to create humidity The ability of natural materials to buffer dampness is impor- and growth the risk of mould ier buildings by reducing They do highlight the this issue. fail to address tant, but the WHO reports this illnesses but relate of asthma and respiratory very disturbing growth is no doubt that There poor housing conditions and fuel poverty. to largely but dampness in poor housing has been around this is a worrying problem, changed has been the and what has really since the industrial revolution chemicals emitted by synthetic building to dangerous higher exposure have been Unfortunately there materials and other household products. this issue very few medical epidemiological studies that have addressed and thus little data is available. they ing about how it gets into houses, schools and other buildings. Instead find the sources: to research call for more Another key issue for natural and renewable materials is that of indoor air is that of indoor materials and renewable key issue for natural Another still unclear, that are reasons health issues. For and building quality (IAQ) the been high on and health has never buildings between the relationship the varies throughout for healthy buildings the UK and concern agenda in building sci- is also given little attention in mainstream world. Air quality pioneering and much It has been important in Germany, ence and physics. movement particularly by the Bau-Biologie there, work has been done not seem to have While it is on the agenda it does (Baubiologie 2012). be a seems to countries. In the USA, there in the Nordic been as significant been and much important work has of the issues, awareness much greater 2012), the Buildings Network, (Healthy Building by the Healthy done there News (EBN 2012). Building 2012) and Environmental (Pharos project Pharos the movement. Search Building Council (WGBC) Green tions like the World or ‘indoor air quality’ and you will get WGBC website for ‘healthy buildings’ and Council for Research found’. Even the International ‘no results established (CIB) has only recently Innovation in Building and Construction (TG77) in 2009 Environment on Health and the Built a working group (CIB 2009). Health Organisation World ignoring wider issues of IAQ. A recent growth, on housing and WHO report publication (WHO 2009) and a 223-page on dampness and almost entirely disease (Braubach 2011) concentrates of the dangers of emissions and only gives the briefest mention moisture, to do in itself was largely toxic materials, citing a 1999 study which from with Indoor air quality Indoor

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 178 Indoor air quality 179 . , Pharos , Pharos dangers dangers natural products (Braubach 2011) (Braubach and formaldehyde used in MDI manufacture advised that this substance does strongly National not enter the environment’ Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) global warming potential; harmful to aquatic organisms some flame Chlorinated flame retardant; persistent, bioaccumulative are retardants and toxic marketed as though they were marketed as though they were (National Cancer Institute 2012 – also see EPA 2011) 2012 – also see EPA (National Cancer Institute Pharos description of current EPA Chemicals of Concern EPA description of current Pharos least one reported death related to a spray foam appli- death related least one reported Typical hazardous chemicals found in sprayed polyurethane foams according foams according found in sprayed polyurethane chemicals hazardous Typical : adapted from : adapted from Formaldehyde has been classified as a known human carcinogen (cancer- been classified as a known human carcinogen Formaldehyde has and on Cancer by the International Agency for Research causing substance) Protection by the U.S. Environmental human carcinogen as a probable Agency There is the need for a better characterization of indoor sources and concen- sources of indoor better characterization for a is the need There available to countries. The evidence European formaldehyde in trations for significant risk fac- formaldehyde is a to that indoor exposure date suggests as wheezing. symptoms such respiratory tor for lower There are three main risks from such dangerous chemicals being incor- such dangerous main risks from three are There Project 2012 (http://www.pharosproject.net/index/blog/mode/detail/record/95/epa- Project Accessed 6.2.12. targets-polyurethane-chemistry). Lead naphthenate (catalyst) women. ‘It is to (pregnant) exposure Avoid HFC-245a (blowing agent)HFC-141b (blowing agent) (beta-chloropropyl) Tris potential high global warming Very phosphate (fyrol) Class II ozone depletion substance; high Source There has been at There 2012). cator in the USA (Pharos indoor air; emissions into or indirect porated in buildings: direct 6.4 Table Project to the Pharos foam (SPF) insulation ingredients of common sprayed polyurethane Hazards Possible constituentsMethyl bisphenol diisocynate Chlorine Asthmagen; suspected carcinogen; risks Health and environment Many synthetic insulation products and timber glues still include formalde- and timber glues still include products Many synthetic insulation still admit to these, some is moving away from hyde, and while industry Other synthetic products in their products. remaining lower concentrations composites being some of contain a range of toxic chemicals, polyurethane about the use serious concerns are the most worrying. In particular there USA. Some foams contain particularly in the of sprayed polyurethane, about 20% soya and are Surprisingly the WHO report fails to mention that formaldehyde has been has mention that formaldehyde fails to the WHO report Surprisingly in some countries including the USA classified as a carcinogen . (empha- on all fronts on all fronts (WWF 2003) . It says a lot about the kind . It says a lot about the kind to be above reproach following complaints from the chemical following complaints from unduly alarming . In the study, Lancaster University analysed the samples for 78 chemicals, 12 Lancaster University analysed In the study, The ASA found WWF’s scientific research scientific research The ASA found WWF’s every technical complaint. But despite being ruled factually and rejected the advertisement was nevertheless accurate and being in the public interest, that it was ‘unduly alarming’. banned on the grounds pesticides (including DDT and lindane), 45 PCB congeners organochlorine including diphenyl ethers (PBDE) flame retardants, and 21 polybrominated traded penta-, octa- and deca-BDEs those found in the commercially sis added) Worryingly high levels of other dangerous chemicals, many associated chemicals, many associated high levels of other dangerous Worryingly Manmade chemicals such as fire retardants have been blamed for hor- retardants Manmade chemicals such as fire The manufacturers and distributors of synthetic insulation materials will of synthetic insulation materials and distributors The manufacturers supported by the study published by WWF (2003), In an important PBDEs were widely used as flame retardants in carpets, curtains, furnish- in carpets, curtains, widely used as flame retardants PBDEs were materials, though, due to health con- ings, plastic and synthetic insulation material Synthetic insulation today. not so prevalent cerns, they are when asked not very forthcoming on the other hand, are manufacturers, and not always given in BBA used, and details are are what flame retardants to Health) certificates. of Substances Hazardous COSHH (Control ASA so it is surprising that the also found by WWF, with plastics, were thought the findings were of society that we live in that a responsible semi-government agency semi-government agency of society that we live in that a responsible public the chemical industry from feels it has an obligation to protect alarm! and Greenland Inuit people in Northern regions, mone disruption affecting absorbed and are Russia, as toxic spillages find their way to Polar regions in high concentrations by polar bears and seals. to the workers who manufacture and apply these products; and the and the these products; apply and manufacture who workers to the that is important to remember It fires. in chemicals released highly toxic Such chemi- also toxic. materials are used with these retardants the fire environment, to the wider damage cause very significant cals also of as and when disposed spillages during manufacturing, particularly landfill. insignificant because insulation materi- are that indoor air emissions argue some While this may be true in structures. encapsulated in building als are and plaster is only a thin layer of plasterboard there building types often agencies and more the occupant. As more from separating such materials dry lining as through insulation inside buildings, such start to use synthetic significantly. these risks can increase for retrofit, taken samples were the Co-operative Bank, blood Institute and Women’s of chemicals that levels UK locations. Worrying 155 volunteers in 13 from cares found. A WWF advert “Who were risks to human health created to contamination attention toxic chemicals end up” in 2002 drew where advert was banned by the over 300 manmade chemicals but the from Authority Advertising Standards industry

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 180 Indoor air quality 181 (CDC 2012) (Brown 2007) (Brown (eubusiness 2012) pollution. …under Article 67 the European Commission will review the need for infor- Commission will review …under Article 67 the European by substances in construction products mation on the content of hazardous information to other 25 April 2014 and may extend the obligation to provide substances, specifically with a focus on health and safety and recycling. If these systems are not appropriately maintained, ventilation air filters can maintained, ventilation not appropriately If these systems are and odour concerns. growth microbial become saturated leading to potential Twice as many girls as boys are being born in some Arctic villages because of because villages some Arctic born in being are as boys many girls as Twice women, of pregnant in the blood of man-made chemicals high levels and Assessment Monitoring the Arctic from to scientists according Programme. In the UK, measures to safeguard health and limit the use of dangerous health and limit the use of dangerous to safeguard In the UK, measures for IAQ standards countries have included in Nordic Building regulations At a European level, legislation was introduced in 2007 to control danger- to control in 2007 level, legislation was introduced At a European Evaluation, (Registration, the REACH directive ous chemicals. However, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) has not had that big an impact the on construction materials, and the overlap between REACH and Further work is still to be Regulations is not clear. Construction Product but it is substances in construction products hazardous done on reviewing very slow. There is much still to be done in terms of building physics and building sci- and building of building physics to be done in terms is much still There how into buildings and released how chemicals are ence to understand are ventilation. Highly sensitive meters dispersed by they are effectively designers However, check emission levels (PPM 2012). now available to of the damage caused by synthetic aware not necessarily and specifiers are to the wider environment. products regula- little attention. The UK building has received and toxic materials to health in the References for indoor air quality. tions do not set standards from ensuring freedom to restricted largely are UK building regulations decades, over recent ventilation. As a result, adequate damp and providing have got significantly to housing conditions illnesses related respiratory standards. in ventilation worse, despite improvements the use of synthetic to have reduced some years, but this does not seem the or reducing Instead of regulating insulation materials (Sundell 1982). venti- higher levels of mechanical require of emissions, regulations source buildings introduce and passiv haus efficient lation. As highly energy of filters used in the role ventilation systems, mechanical heat recovery the MVHR system should remove such systems becomes critical. Ideally that filters can worries are air but there contaminants and bring in fresh internal pol- However, not changed regularly. become clogged if they are working properly. systems if they are luted air should be expelled in MVHR fabrics inside the home originate from Many pollutants that accumulate in external (HSE 2008) Carol Houghton informed WATCH that the classification in the EU of min- that the classification in the informed WATCH Houghton Carol The Chairman opened the item by informing WATCH that two representa- WATCH The Chairman opened the item by informing Eurisol UK, were association, the mineral wool manufacturers tives from members with an overview of key issues attending the meeting to provide for commission- a proposal insulation mineral wool, and to present to relating Houghton welcomed: Carol ing a new risk assessment. The Chairman (Knauf Insulation Ltd), attending (CJHconsult Associates) and Steve Williams on Houghton to give a presentation on behalf of Eurisol UK. He invited Carol members to give consideration to insulation mineral wool and asked WATCH by Eurisol UK for further work on this theme. a proposal to EU substance” and ongoing activity in relation eral wool as a “dangerous wools could pose to mineral limits imply that exposure occupational exposure to negative percep- that this has led to health. She argued a significant threat market concerns; companies creates tions about the use of mineral wool and of litigation and there fearful to adopt a very cautious approach, tending are the use of a high monitoring and demands for exposure have been greater used. wools are mineral equipment at sites where level of personal protective sustainable material that has numer- Eurisol considers that mineral wool is a the current address looking to ous potentially beneficial uses and is therefore market concerns. The HSE official who is the secretary to WATCH, also works for the also works to WATCH, the secretary who is The HSE official to attend WATCH of the public, it is not possible While, as a member Eurisol argued that the level of risk posed by present-day exposure to to exposure that the level of risk posed by present-day Eurisol argued than adequate and more are existing controls mineral wool is very low, than many other ‘dusts’. dangerous that mineral wool was no more the committee that everything was aim seemed to be to reassure Eurisol’s by the EU in terms of all right to counter what is being considered in these reported The argument classifying mineral wool as hazardous. the suggestion that because instead of refuting minutes is very revealing that it has they simply argued insulation is dangerous mineral fibre In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has a responsibility to to responsibility has a (HSE) Executive and Safety Health UK, the In the to on Action Group ‘Working group and it has a WATCH chemicals control Toxic Committee on has an advisory The HSE also Chemicals’. Control its minutes and, does publish committee (ACTS). The WATCH Substances not but it has it holds open meetings (HSE 2012), to its website according watch this website says “Please The WATCH for some years. held one meeting of WATCH” of the date of the next open space for notification (HSE 2012). Chemicals within the on Pesticides, and has roles Advisory Committee of how thinly wider in HSE. This is an indication and Regulation Directorate have become. functions with such regulatory staff spread of their minutes that access for manufacturers from meetings, it is clear the The exchange between is not a problem. products synthetic insulation at length committee is reproduced the WATCH industry and mineral fibre and between the synthetics industry relationship as an example of the here, in Bootle notes of a meeting on 17 June 2008 are Here the regulators. Hall: Town

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 182 Indoor air quality 183 (HSE 2008) (HSE 1998) MMMF can in some circumstances cause irritation of the skin and eyes and MMMF can in some circumstances an association studies have reported tract. Some recent upper respiratory but the exact cause and and lung cancer, between mineral wool production controversial. significance of this are The Chairman thanked members for their comments. He confirmed with He confirmed for their comments. thanked members The Chairman study on mineral in the proposed was interested that the committee WATCH be that it would agreed Eurisol UK … WATCH commissioned by wool to be the proposed outcomes from meeting the at a future to consider appropriate package of with supporting information, in a comprehensive together study, evaluation of all the committee to conduct a fuller papers that would enable of the available evidence. the ARC-PEACE meeting in Copenhagen 12 April 2012 http://arcpeace.org/ web/ (viewed 5.5.12) on Non-conventional of the 11th International Conference materials. Proceedings 6–9 September 2009, Bath, UK Materials and Technologies ARC-PEACE 2012 Statement on Education of Architects and Planners adopted by ARC-PEACE 2012 Statement on Education of Architects thermal performances of building Arnaud L. 2009 Comparative study of hygro Controls of those products and materials that contain potentially harmful and materials that contain of those products Controls successful Industry lobbying has been insufficient. currently substances are level. at European both in the UK and at bay, at keeping tighter regulation associated issues that are is little chance of dealing with the health There and synthetic materials when regula- with conventional building methods by natural and offered so weak. Thus the healthy alternatives tions are bodies. official by those in ignored materials seem to be largely renewable Insulation have published a carefully Companies such as Black Mountain that sheep’s in which they argue guide to indoor air quality, referenced and lock up formaldehyde and tolu- wool insulation can be used to absorb many timber In a situation where ene emissions as a ‘passive absorber’. formalde- carcinogenic buildings still contain used in low energy products (Black mitigation of the problem hyde, this can be seen as a useful interim and toxic substances Mountain 2012), but it would be better if dangerous did not get into building materials in the first place. Several years later, having checked with the HSE officials, it was confirmed the HSE officials, having checked with Several years later, Wool known as MIMA the Mineral Eurisol (now from that no such report that and thus it does not appear has emerged Association), Manufacturers safety of mineral fibre done by the HSE to consider the anything has been with con- been preoccupied recently has more The committee products. But as long ago as and mesothelioma (HSE 2008). cerns about asbestos for the HSE stated (MMMF) about manmade mineral fibre 1988 a report beneficial uses! The WATCH committee appeared to be reassured by by reassured to be appeared committee WATCH The uses! beneficial arguments. these flimsy References

Carbon Trust (viewed 15.3.12) Carbon Trust CTV 014 , Arup Research + Development, Bill Dunster Architects, UK Architects, Bill Dunster Development, + , Arup Research UK Housing and Climate Change – Heavyweight versus lightweight lightweight versus – Heavyweight Change Climate and UK Housing construction www.efca.info/../Concrete_for%20 ASBL, April 2007 Platform Concrete European (viewed 13.1.12) Energy_Efficient_Buildings.pdf (viewed 6.3.12) ance.aspx (viewed 13.11.12) 6.5.12) sive_ solutions.pdf (viewed portfolio of 1: A and post-occupancy evaluation routine making feedback Issue 4, 33, & Information Volume Building Research feedback techniques 2005 A method guide to the quantification ease associated with inadequate housing: Region of selected housing risks in the WHO European of health effects (viewed 20.2.12) greenguide/page.jsp?id=2072 gender.sciencenews Research A, Oct 2008 Cambridge Architectural Envelope Mulligan A. and Brown for Kingspan Insulation Ltd. Prepared (viewed 8.12.12) Rennes, France, 2011 LGCGM, University of Brittany, European hempcrete. 15.2.12) Agency STRIVE Protection Material in Irish Construction, Irish Environmental Report 2012 http://erc.epa.ie/safer/iso19115/displayISO19115.jsp?isoID=202 Best Practice Programme Efficiency GPG274. Energy Offices, Efficient 21.3.12) html (viewed 14.2.12) 89/106/EEC 2011 (laying down harmonised conditions for the marketing of Council 9 March Official 89/106/EEC Council Directive and repealing construction products Union L 88/5 4.4.2011) Journal of the European ARUP 2004 ARUP (viewed 16.2.12) 2012 http://www.usablebuildings.co.uk/ Arup Associates mass benefits of thermal buildings: The for energy-efficient Concrete ASBL 2007 (viewed 27.2.12) www.asbp.org.uk ASBP 2012 Bath 2012 http://www.bath.ac.uk/ace/biomaterials-binders-for-construction-2/ (viewed 10.12.12) Bau-biologie 2012 http://www.baubiologie.de/site/english.php Bulletin No.5 http://www.bbacerts.co.uk/technical_guid BBA 2012 Information http://blackmountaininsulation.com/images/pdf/pdf_pas Black Mountain 2012 evaluation 2005 Special Issue: Building performance B. and Leaman A. Bordass of dis- burden D.E. and Ormandy D. Eds. 2011 Environmental Braubach M. Jacobs http://www.bre.co.uk/ Guide 2012 http://www.bre.co.uk/greenguide BRE Green (viewed 5.3.12) BREEAM http://www.breeam.org/page.jsp?id=358 12.9.2007 http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2007/sep/12/ 2007 Guardian P. Brown and the Building Calculations For Breathability Diffusion 2008: Vapour A Brown (viewed 15.3.12) 2012: www.carbontrust.co.uk/ Carbon Trust 2007 Carbon Trust CDC 2012 http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/buildingventilation.html CIB http://www.cibworld.nl/site/news/newsletter.html?year=2009&number=8 J. Lanos C. 2011 Hydric characterisation of sprayed S. Chamoin, Pretot, Collet, F., (viewed http://www.construction-chanvre.asso.fr/ Construire-en-chanvre Chanvre 2012 Hemp Lime Bio-composite as a Building T. Woolley, P. Ronchetti, P., Daly, of Energy- Guide to the Cost-Effectiveness Surveyor’s A Quantity EEBPP,1999 (viewed Building News 2012 http://www.buildinggreen.com/ EBN Environmental http:/www.epa.gov/aiq/formalde/ to Indoor Air Quality 2011 An introduction EPA Community L40/12 21 (December 1988) Journal of the European EC 1988 Official 571 Brussels EN 20.9.11 COM Europe Efficient EN 2011 Roadmap to a Resource EST 2010 Insulation Materials Chart CE71 EST 2004 Revised 2010 Parliament and of the EU 2011 Regulation (EU) No 305/2011 of the European

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Housing the Sinn, C. and Perry, Institute of Housing 2008 Chartered (viewed 5.3.12) trust_hq.aspx (viewed 7.5.12) DC 2002 Materials, Healthy Building Network, Washington, 2012 unpublished http://uktfa.com/thermal-mass-in- Project Strategy Board housing/ (viewed 7.5.12) Protection Environment the Network of Heads of European Contribution from (89/106/EEC) Directive of the Construction Products Agencies to the revision 24 September 2007 http://www.umweltbundesamt.de/produkte-e/bau- Zagreb, (viewed 5.3.12) produkte/promoting.htm (viewed 5.3.12) Copenhagen ISBN 978 92 890 4168 3 mance: the ethics of computer simulation 38(4), 401–410 (viewed 15.3.12) www.wwf.org.uk/filelibrary/pdf/biomonitoringresults.pdf 95/epa-targets-polyurethane-chemistry (viewed 6.2.12) (viewed 95/epa-targets-polyurethane-chemistry Darmstadt Bulk compressibility, adsorption and distribution, Water Particle size 2011 22 November Conference University PhD thesis Plymouth probe ASTM Journal materials with a thermal probe, of building ductivity measurements (3) Evaluation, v.38 and of Testing (viewed 22.4.12) approveddocuments/partl/bcassociateddocuments9/acd PPM 2012 http://www.ppm-technology.com/ (viewed 3.4.12) PPM 2012 http://www.ppm-technology.com/ 2012 http://www.excellence-in-insulation.eu/site/index.php?id=73 PU Europe (viewed 15.4.12) Clima 2012 http://www.proclima.com/co/INT/en/intello.html Pro a Low Carbon Academy of Engineering London: Engineering RAE 2010: The Royal S. Life-Cycle and Edwards, 2003 Kotaji, S., Schuurmans, A. Europe SETAC Sustainable homes http://www.sustainablehomes.co.uk/assessortraining.aspx indoor air regarding building regulations Sundell, J. 1982 Guidelines for Nordic the basis of sustainable Science, to Architectural 2007 Introduction S.V. Szokolay, carbon” in zero we moving towards are M. 2008 “Building New Houses, Taylor, http://www.innovateuk.org/ourstrategy.ashx Strategy Board TSB Technology 2012 http://www.thisisconcrete.co.uk/case_studies/woodland_ This is concrete Impacts of Polyvinyl Chloride Building Thornton, J. 2002, PhD. Environmental Technology, Bio-based Natural Insulation Efficient S. and Latif, E. 2012 Energy Tucker, the Construction Sector A Innovation in Eco-efficient Umweltbundesamt Promoting http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/tools_directory US Department of Energy 2009 WHO 2009 Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality Dampness and Mould building perfor- & Information Predicting 2010 Building Research Williamson, T.J. WWF 2003 Contamination – The Results of Biomonitoring Survey WWF Godalming Pharos Project 2012 http://www.pharosproject.net/index/blog/mode/detail/record/ 2012 http://www.pharosproject.net/index/blog/mode/detail/record/ Project Pharos Hemp shiv characterisation: C. 2011 and Baley, T. Lecompte, P., Tronet, V., Picandet, using a thermal of building materials B. 2008 In situ measurements Pilkington, In situ thermal con- 2010 S. and de Wilde P. R., Goodhew, Pilkington, B., Griffiths, 2012 http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/ Planning Portal Pohl, J. 2011

Building physics, natural materials and policy issues 186 7. Other solutions for low energy housing

Since 2005 there has been a rapid growth of experimental housing projects in the UK. The Renewable House Programme (RHP) is only one of a number of initiatives that provide evidence that many people are keen to try to reduce energy consumption and improve environmental performance. However, many of these attempts are misguided and have used techno- logies that are unlikely to stand the test of time. The mainstream industry approach to ‘zero carbon’ housing is the least successful from an environ- mental point of view because of the narrow focus on operational energy as discussed previously. Many of the timber frame modern methods of construction (MMC) solutions have been poorly thought through and rely on a hotchpotch of plastic and synthetic components that may fail to achieve the intended low energy results. Sooner or later the serious problems inherent in these solutions will become apparent. Misleading zero carbon claims could and should be challenged through the Advertising Standards Authority. On the other hand there are some examples that are well intentioned and even well crafted, but fail to adopt a holistic approach, ignoring the importance of health, pollution and embodied energy. There are also many examples of projects using low impact, natural and renewable materials that were not part of the RHP. Much can be learned from these projects though it is not possible to go into a great deal of detail here. A small number of other projects from outside the UK are included here as they have some links with the RHP objectives.

Hemp lime houses

A hemp lime single-family house in Nordhoek, near Cape Town, South Africa, was built by Tony Budden of Hemporium (Hemporium 2012) and completed in 2010, drawing for technical advice and inspiration on hemp- crete projects in the UK. The Nordhoek house uses a timber frame and

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Hemp house in Nordhoek South Africa (side). Reproduced by permission of South Africa (side). Reproduced Hemp house in Nordhoek Hemp house in Nordhoek, South Africa (front). Reproduced by permission of Reproduced South Africa (front). Hemp house in Nordhoek, Figure 7.2 Figure Hemporium, South Africa. Figure 7.1 Figure Hemporium, South Africa.

Other solutions for low energy housing 188 Hemp houses in Ireland 189 There have been problems with some of the hemp lime projects in lime projects with some of the hemp have been problems There that have has a number of successful projects On the other hand, Ireland (eco village 2012) also includes a hemp The eco village at Cloughjordan There are quite a number of hemp lime houses in Ireland, and some exper- lime houses in Ireland, quite a number of hemp are There has shown The Irish Government lime renovation. imentation with hemp Park trials by TEAGASC at Oak agricultural in hemp through interest assumed that hemp was only (TEAGASC 2012), though it was mistakenly the potential for hemp and biomass. A study into suitable for fibreboard Agency, Protection commissioned by the Irish Environmental lime in Ireland, 2012). to in Chapter 6 (Daly carried out in 2009/10 is referred of hemp alternative sources as some businesses have tried to find Ireland, mixes to avoid importing materials and to make up their own lime binder hemp of in England. Most of the alternative sources Lime Technology from and significant amount of hemp fibre shiv that have been used include a drying out periods, with the hemp this seems to have led to much slower of have also been failures There than shiv. moisture holding more fibre been used. cheap hydrated lime has to save money, where, external render the deal of ignorance about lime and a great remains there Unfortunately, lime. hydraulic lime and hydrated between lime putty, differences blend of a careful for the best results, Experience to date suggests that the best binder is necessary for pre-formulated lime as in the Tradical wall especially if it is applied to a hemp lime A poor quality render, results. especially if exposed failures, can lead to that has not dried out sufficiently have lime external renders Hemp to the heavy and driving rain in Ireland. strawbale buildings, leading to serious also been used with poorly detailed problems. England, including sev- and hemp imported from lime binder used Tradical Cloughjordan at an ‘eco village’ in Cloughjordan. eral hemp lime projects designed construction. One project other forms of low energy also features in and Nicole Power of Acorn Energy Niall Leahy for Brenda by architect plastic shuttering was has been very well finished. Temporary Cloughjordan to used as well as permanent shuttering, and thus the build is very similar that used in the RHP in England. (Self-build 2011). that have used forms of construction lime terrace and various projects some hempcrete walls but also some hemp fibre insulation and local tim- and insulation fibre some hemp but also walls hempcrete some part of the was also a key lime plaster with hemp Experimentation ber. between it with nothing an exposed position is in quite Nordhoek project. weather on test of wind and it will be a good South Atlantic, so and the Africa by the South of hemp, into growing Research walls. hempcrete far some years, but so going on for has been of Agriculture, Department even though conditions are commercially, not grown industrial hemp is is in many parts of Africa there is grown cannabis good. As illegal narcotic and for it as an alternative, to be developed there, the potential for hemp cost housing. to be used in low Hemp houses in Ireland Hemp houses possibly village 2012). (Durisol 2012) Cloughjordan hempcrete house designed by Niall Leahy. Reproduced by Reproduced house designed by Niall Leahy. hempcrete Cloughjordan Durisol is made from waste materials that will not rot or burn and provide or burn and provide waste materials that will not rot Durisol is made from the Durisol system more, excellent U vales for Eco Friendly Building. What’s needs to be con- can be built in all weather and quickly dries. Hemcrete conditions and can take many months to dry out. structed under controlled six months after The photograph below shows a home built with Hemcrete, the building was complete and the occupiers had moved in. One product used for quite a few of the eco village houses is Durisol used for quite a few of the One product Figure 7.3 Figure Acorn Energy. Power, permission of Brendan (involving hemp) that have never been tried anywhere before. These seem These before. tried anywhere (involving hemp) that have never been of risk, particularly using loose hemp, untamped to involve a high degree (Site 84) is said to have used project hemp lime and clay hemp plasters. One website includes some ‘case stud- ‘the whole of the hemp plant’. The village detail (eco much technical ies’ though these do not provide hemp lime plaster at Cloughjordan blocks and this has been used with wood’ ‘recycled made from (Durisol 2012). Durisol is a hollow block the Durisol not clear from the mix were mixed with cement, but details of sustain- Stating that Durisol provides website nor on their BBA certificate. cavity in the block with filling the construction, they recommend able green good claim extremely but also to give it structural strength concrete foam is included in the block. U-values when mineral wool or phenolic have also used hemp and lime either as infill or as a Some Durisol projects eco village. Despite at the Cloughjordan projects including some plaster, on their website stating this, Durisol has criticised hempcrete

Other solutions for low energy housing 190 Hemp houses in Ireland 191 E Q
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DMBZT Table 7.1 Table Longford hemp house designed by Winkens. Reproduced by permission of hemp house designed by Winkens. Reproduced Longford Claimed both as carbon neutral and carbon negative, the house uses Claimed both as carbon neutral and carbon negative, the house uses Even though there have been many individual self-built strawbale houses in Even though there the world, strawbale construction has the UK and many thousands around house build- adopted for social housing or by mainstream not been readily built with bales, is of in Lincolnshire, ers in the UK. Thus a small project affordable passiv haus projects completed so far. It has won one of the Irish completed so far. passiv haus projects affordable in 2012. Awards Green Waghorn south-west Scotland, designed by Mark A house in Cairn Valley, said that it was deal of publicity because it was a great received architects, 2012). farms’ (Waghorn sheep of the surrounding from using ‘wool sheared that this meant that the sheep fleeces A number of people had assumed of when contacted, the owner However, to go straight into the roof! were to be processed had gone to Bradford the house, explained that the wool the same as that sold by so the insulation is much in the normal way, Thermafleece or Black Mountain. some local timber and is being constructed with a steel frame. Figure 7.4 Figure Winkens Architecture. Strawbale houses in West Grove, Martin, North Kesteven, Lincolnshire Grove, Strawbale houses in West Local sheep’s wool in Scotland Local sheep’s

Other solutions for low energy housing 192 Strawbale houses in West Grove, Martin, North Kesteven, Lincolnshire 193 - . The 2 carbon SMZ
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QBSUJDVMB Figure 7.5 Figure Standard. Sleaford semidetached council owned Designed as a pair of considerable interest. these two-storey, in the area, houses houses to look very similar to ordinary m of 85.75 area houses of an internal gross three-bedroomed community Carter Homes, has gone on to construct a builder, mainstream strawbale walls. Strawbale in Neatishead, Norfolk, that also includes centre than other ways of building as cheaper construction is often promoted or less, but, due to the labour involved because the bales can cost £2 each savings unless no significant are there and other aspects of construction significant element of self-build. is a there seemed in the houses, but one tenant, interviewed by the local newspaper, 2012). Standard very happy (Sleaford footprint of the strawbale houses. This claims that the materials emissions kg CO rate for constructing one of the houses is 151 clear whether this is a total figure or is per square metre. (Sodagar 2012). metre. or is per square clear whether this is a total figure gles construction (Parsons and Whittley 2012) structural. Initially cellulose (recycled structural. Initially cellulose (recycled (the house of one night) project (Ty Unnos 2012), a (Ty (the house of one night) project Ty Unnos Ty Ongar strawbale design by Parsons and Whittley. Reproduced by permission Reproduced by Parsons and Whittley. Ongar strawbale design The construction uses a structural timber frame with straw infill, lime-rendered frame with straw infill, lime-rendered The construction uses a structural timber The original concept of utilising oak shin externally and with a pantiled roof. was abandoned in view of the potential risk of damage by local on the roofs woodpeckers! Innovative work in Wales to develop alternative forms of timber Innovative work in Wales Another social housing landlord, Hastoe Housing Association, is building Hastoe Housing Another social housing landlord, Figure 7.6 7.6 Figure of Parsons and Whittley Ltd Architects. Conventional timber frame construction does not always use timber in Conventional timber frame construction Much of the the most point of view. an environmental way from effective because home grown construction is imported timber used in mainstream have been made attempts However, timber in the UK is seen as unsuitable. to find ways of using local timber. has led to the local timber made from modular form of construction using a timber structure Wales Knowledge 2012). Developed with the help of Wood (Elements Europe quality Sitka the system is designed to use poorer and Bangor University, spruce by making box sections which are newspaper) insulation has been used with the system but other natural insula- tions would work just as well. Despite the excellent potential of this system, a single adoption and use by house builders has been limited. However, and a small development of four social houses in in Ebbw Vale house project have been completed (Dolwyddelan 2012). Dolwyddelan in North Wales four strawbale houses in High Ongar in Essex, designed by Norfolk four strawbale houses in High Ongar Parsons and Whittley. architects, Timber experiments

Other solutions for low energy housing 194 Timber experiments 195 (Dragonboard 2012) (Dragonboard Dolwyddelan Ty Unnos House. Reproduced by permission of Helen McAteer, by permission of Helen McAteer, Unnos House. Reproduced Dolwyddelan Ty In waste management terms, Dragonboard must be one of the ‘greenest’ must be one of the ‘greenest’ In waste management terms, Dragonboard on the planet boards The Housing Expo in Ebbw Vale in South Wales, much smaller than the smaller than the much in South Wales, The Housing Expo in Ebbw Vale While strong claims are also made about the health and environmental also made about the health and environmental claims are While strong the Icynene insulation is a petrochemical advantages of Dragonboard, by some as hazardous and would be regarded product based polyurethane (see Chapter 6). one in Inverness, with only three homes, includes a timber clad passiv includes a timber clad passiv homes, one in Inverness, with only three win- Housing Association with timber haus developed by United Welsh joinery firm (The Works a local Welsh from dows to passiv haus standards method was Unnos construction house using the Ty 2012). A visitor centre known as the house, house, three-bedroom also constructed. A third Constructed company. Welsh home, was developed by a Dragonboard is intended that board a from made are with a steel frame system, its walls a sprayed and uses and plasterboard, oriented strand board to replace appears to be an Dragonboard foam insulation known as “Icynene.” of using a mixture in China, but possibly manufactured American product it as wood waste dust and magnesium oxide, but whether that makes claimed is open to question. as green Figure 7.7 Figure Menter Siabod Ltd. Dragonboard house Dragonboard Ebbw Vale passiv haus Ebbw Vale Figure 7.9 Figure Figure 7.8 Figure

Other solutions for low energy housing 196 Using local materials? Scottish Housing Expo

In addition to the Scottish Housing Expo RHP case study houses, a range of other interesting demonstration projects, mainly using timber, were con- structed in Inverness. They include the Flower House, which uses CLT tim- ber and wood fibre insulation; the White House with CLT covered with a

resin based external coating; the Stealth Terrace, four family homes wrapped in a skin of ‘black rubber’ and black stained larch cladding and ivy on the facade; the Shed House, which is a fairly conventional timber frame with timber cladding; the Stone House, clad in Caithness Stone; and houses of dense blockwork among others (Scotland’s Housing Expo 2010). As far as can be seen, no detailed evaluation has been published of the Housing Expo, from an energy or environmental perspective, but there has been some discussion of the issues around its implementation, and the opera- tional issues of the project. Some might take the view that the Expo was more an opportunity for architects to indulge various design experiments than a serious effort to address sustainability issues.

The Scottish Government is currently conducting a review of the Expo to evaluate the success of the project and to learn from the ideas and experi- ences of those who took part in its creation and who visited the event in August 2010. (Scotland Government 2011)

Using local materials?

The Ty Unnos project is an interesting attempt to use local Welsh timber, and other organisations have also addressed this issue. The ‘LoCaL’ project, by Accord Housing Association, in the English Midlands, is an interesting attempt to develop local supply systems, where they have set up their own factory to produce timber frame housing panels and modules. This aims to create local employment and cuts out some of the middlemen in the nor- mal industry supply chains. Previously the Housing Association was import- ing closed timber panels from Norway, but by manufacturing them locally UIFZ
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Other solutions for low energy housing 198 Greenwash projects? Greenwash projects?

There are a growing number of projects that claim to achieve zero carbon solutions but the green claims about many of these projects are not always credible. Some environmental organisations have formed partnerships with larger commercial bodies to promote sustainable solutions in the main- stream. BioRegional, that was involved in the construction of the famous

BEDZED project (BEDZED 2011), formed a joint venture with a mainstream construction firm, Quintain. BioRegional Quintain built a large multi-storey housing scheme in Brighton, One Brighton, with developers Crest Nicholson and had planned another in Middlesbrough. However, Quintain became a victim of the recession and closed down, leaving the Middlesbrough scheme only partially realised (Guardian 2011a). Known as One Brighton and Middlehaven One, these projects may not be as environmentally sound as is sometimes claimed. However, the One Brighton project used some wood fibre renewable and other materials from NBT. The Brighton and Middlesbrough schemes are said to comply with the BioRegional ‘one planet principles’ (One Planet 2012), and quite a number of commercial businesses have signed up to this aim, such as Lafarge, the multinational cement and concrete business, who say that they plan to carry out several one-planet living developments* (Lafarge 2012). The one- planet living principles on the face of it seem very good, but there seems not to be any rigorous way of measuring whether they have been achieved by projects or companies who have signed up. Maybe they are just ‘moving towards’ the standards! While there were some innovative features to the ‘One Brighton’ scheme, designed by architects Feilden Clegg Bradley, it is hard to understand how a scheme using so much concrete and steel could ever be regarded as a model of how to live within one-planet constraints. The concept of one planet is best understood through the global footprinting methodology that attempts to make overall assessments of environmental impact (Footprint 2012). Most european countries are considered to use about three or more planets share of resources and thus to reduce this activity to one planet impact, by living in equilibrium with planetary resources, would involve very significant changes in lifestyle and resource consumption. Indeed a rigor- ous analysis of this might suggest that in a wealthy country, like the UK, with a large surplus of empty buildings, we should not be consuming any resources at all to create new buildings. The embodied energy of a large project like One Brighton would be significant and thus its environmental impact could be considered damaging in terms of resource consumption and embodied energy emissions. When asked to justify these claims, Pooran Desai of BioRegional stated

*Lafarge claims in their sustainability report from 2009 that cement only emits 0.075 per gramme of cement whereas potato crisps emit 2.2! They say that their ambition is to reduce

CO2 emissions by 10% by 2012. Cement manufacture globally produces about 5% of all CO2 emissions, so it is a major contributor to global warming. The units for cement and crisps are not made clear. (Lafarge 2012) 199 - personal completed [FSP
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T One … resounding fact about CIAC is that simply by living here, in one of the fact about CIAC is that simply by living here, One … resounding developments in the UK, you’ll be con- responsible most environmentally tributing I think the issue is whether in urban areas, investment in embodied carbon for carbon in embodied investment areas, in urban is whether the issue I think concrete used at 12 storey’s transport (with Brighton reduce to order high-rise in to reduce and post-tensioned aggregate GGBS, 100% secondary albeit 50% design) is a valid approach. car free facilitating a private concrete, volume of There are dangers in badging schemes like this as ‘green’ or ‘one planet’ or dangers in badging schemes like this as ‘green’ are There in one scheme has only resulted The ambitious Middlesbrough BioRegional one planet principles (Extract) BioRegional one planet t

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Source and pioneer of sustainability authority Desai, who is a highly respected been any independent analysis had not policies, also confirmed that there BREEAM post-construction the from of the One Brighton claims, apart report. somehow sav- they are that to the residents as this may give the impression changes in lifestyle, other than pos- ing the planet while only making minor They can cut down their sibly cutting down on car ownership. station and using less energy the nearby footprint by catching the train from to heat their houses, but one-planet principles do not appear to require consumption to build the houses in the first in resource major reductions place. Community in a Cube (CIAC), ‘Riverside the 80-unit nine-storey project, One’, designed by and designs by Nick Grimshaw has been left unrealised. Table 7.2 Table

Other solutions for low energy housing 200 Greenwash projects 201 . The concrete The concrete (Riverside One 2012) Some of the construction materials Some of the construction materials Middlehaven 1 . Riverside One has been designed to make full use of local, healthy, natu- full use of local, healthy, Riverside One has been designed to make are the most advanced and sustainable in the UK, providing the possibility the possibility advanced and sustainable in the UK, providing the most are used to extract, pro- The energy of long-term heath benefits to residents. as well as pollution and transport materials (embodied energy) cess, refine materials will be Locally sourced and waste generated, will be reduced. transport impacts and to support the local economy used to reduce (emphasis added) Riverside One is designed to be very energy efficient as well as zero carbon. well as zero as efficient Riverside One is designed to be very energy filled with argon stay warm in winter, The buildings will be highly insulated to lighting and appliances. efficient double glazing and energy to stay cool in summer by absorb- frame construction will enable the building ing heat materials. and recycled ral, reclaimed A charitable view of such projects is that they are trying to make some trying to make some they are is that A charitable view of such projects using con- construction, changes within mainstream small environmental building envelope is frame within the and steel, though a concrete crete a building cool. The idea that local unlikely to contribute much to keeping taken with a pinch of salt. The builder materials have been used should be One, was asked what insulation materials had been used at Riverside making ‘full use of local healthy and natural materials’ but the response was that ‘the client does not want to disclose this infor- GB-Building from open and mation’ (GB-Building 2012). Fortunately as we live in a relatively to find out what insula- democratic society it did not take too much effort the tion had been specified, though this might have been changed by mm Pavatherm wood fibre builder on site. The specification included 80 has been some attempt to use a natural renewable so there boards, this was only for part of the building. However, (though not local) product. and fibreglass products, Most of the insulation included various rockwool we have another example of where Here mm Kingspan boards. some 60 Figure 7.12 7.12 Figure (Evans 2012 ) Middlehaven 2 The plan is to reduce on-site carbon emissions by 60% and to offset the on-site carbon emissions by 60% and to offset The plan is to reduce site MW wind turbine located off 40% by building a 1.5 remaining One example of a bold attempt to achieve carbon neutral, is a project, achieve carbon neutral, is a project, One example of a bold attempt to It was difficult to find out too much about the wind turbine or even whether It was difficult Sussex or Scotland, if it has been built at all! The developers it is in West too keen on any critical comment on the scheme, saying in an seem didn’t the email that they would ‘veto any unfavourable use’ (in this book) of those involved appear not to discriminate between synthetic and natural between synthetic and natural those involved appear not to discriminate could achieve the long- to see how such materials insulation, and it is hard term health benefits claimed. carbon and carbon neutral can zero As explained in Chapter 5, the terms not stop housing developers claiming have little meaning, but that does numerous are There building carbon neutral developments. that they are though few get carbon or carbon neutral, as zero schemes being promoted near to justifying such claims. which carbon housing development, zero largest claimed to be the UK’s developing an 85-acre are Sutton began in 2007. Linden Homes and Affinity Sussex, to West site at Graylingwell Park, an old hospital near Chichester, build 800 homes. Figure 7.13 Figure So-called ‘carbon neutral’ developments

Other solutions for low energy housing 202 Earth sheltered building 203 PJM
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Built since 1998, linking a terrace of houses and a big solar gain with a massive conservatory many people to attempt eco inspired earth bank on the north side and has and information programme. its excellent education building through visited the the UK Labour Government Housing Minister, Cooper, Yvette to a two of the houses retrofitted in 2007. Hockerton has recently project standard. higher energy higher in terms of embodied ing materials, thus making such projects used in is little published evidence on how much solid earth There energy. the embodied that might offset this way contributes to thermal efficiency, the other materials. of energy information they sent! The claims of being carbon neutral are dependent dependent are neutral carbon of being The claims sent! they information and kW engines 500 scheme with two district-heating CHP on a gas-fired large For such a thermal storage. boilers and massive MW gas four 1.1 houses are the providing make some sense, this seems to development heating compared in district efficiencies potential are There well insulated. renewable with micro Homes preoccupation Code for Sustainable with the Park 2012). in each house (Graylingwell about their approach Powerpoint 2011). What is striking insulations* (Evans layers and and wall build-ups with so many of the roof is the complexity construction is fairly typical of attempts in mainstream materials used. This using synthetic petrochemical results carbon’ ‘zero to achieve low energy monitor- will be independent is to be hoped that there based materials. It effi- the energy of these buildings to see whether ing of the performance achieved. have been ciency standards materials) in the to achieve a U value in an effort mm Knauf Wallboard and 15 Kooltherm K7 insulation board 0.12 W/m achieve a U-value of 0.17 W/m achieve a U-value of 0.17 Earth sheltered building Earth sheltered (Gardiner 2012) (Gardiner Labour Friends of India and a cross-party coalition of MPs are urging the urging coalition of MPs are India and a cross-party Labour Friends of its review of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) to Committee London Organising Dow Chemical Company the contract to build the decora- decision to award appalling human rights record Dow’s tive wrapping on the Olympic Stadium. puts the Olympic to the victims of the 1984 Bhopal gas disaster in regards legacy at risk. Another earth sheltered scheme in Honingham in Norfolk built by the built in Norfolk in Honingham scheme sheltered earth Another Dow has also been a major sponsor of the Olympics and Dow Styrofoam of the Olympics and Dow Styrofoam Dow has also been a major sponsor of the Olympic Village where was used substantially in the construction led to a campaign by some architects ethical concerns about Bhopal have to boycott Dow products. (BRE Innovation Park near Watford. The Renewable House at the BRE as part of the BRE projects 2011) was one of a number of demonstration able to see and politicians were Innovation Park. Many influential visitors without taking fright and natural materials house built from the renewable that cost considerably more it with other demonstration projects compare built on the 2007). Not all of the houses that were than normal (Vaughan only seen as semipermanent, and people as they were site still remain, One being renovated. already cannot live in them. One or two houses are formwork) by apartment building to be built out of ICF (insulated concrete was never completed and was a company called CREO Prokoncept, demolished (or ‘deconstructed’ to use BRE terminology!). ICF is still being construction (ICF 2012). It involves con- as a form of low energy promoted based insulation such as poly- structing formwork out of a petrochemical inside and then pouring concrete held together with metal ties styrene, for some time by the Cement and the insulation. This was promoted of construction due to its thermal Association as an ideal form Concrete as it mass, until it was pointed out that the thermal mass was ineffective, Flagship group (involved in Diss in the RHP) is a smaller version of Hockerton, version of Hockerton, RHP) is a smaller in Diss in the (involved group Flagship PhD on earth sheltered his Harrall who wrote Jeremy by architect designed his projects, 2007). Harrall, in of Lincoln (Harrall at the University housing including urethane insulation materials based synthetic uses petrochemical the CaNeBuZo of his projects, one Dow promotes Dow Styrofoam. foam and Like on their website (Dow 2012). prominently development in Lincolnshire, and energy the embodied carbon neutral projects, so many other so-called much not given the synthetic insulation are impacts of environmental in rela- of Dow, questions about the role ethical but neither are prominence chair of Labour MP, Carbide scandal. Barry Gardiner tion to the Union about the use along with many others been protesting, Friends of India, has at the London Olympics stadium. of Dow materials BRE Innovation Park

Other solutions for low energy housing 204 Masonry construction for low energy houses 205 (BRE 2011) BRE Innovation Park projects BRE Innovation The Hanson EcoHouse The Hanson House The Renewable House Affordable Osborne’s Campus Healthcare Willmott Dixon House Green The Barratt The Victorian Terrace The Visitors Centre The Sigma Home House The Prince’s architecture Innovations in landscape The Cub House use Energy Podpassiv Built by The Prince’s Foundation for Building Community, the Prince’s House the Prince’s Building Community, Foundation for Built by The Prince’s prefer- people’s that nonetheless reflects structure efficient is a highly energy natural materi- It is constructed from ence for traditionally designed buildings. and plasters, and insulation renders als including aerated clay block, lime based shell wool. The thermally coherent and sheep’s wood fibre using compressed is simple and quick to and good indoor air quality, efficiency delivers energy homebuyer. eco-aware build and is designed to appeal to an increasingly It was not possible to find any significant independent review of the BRE independent review It was not possible to find any significant listed by the BRE as ‘The at the Innovation Park, One of the projects t
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Despite the general shift towards timber frame construction and the advan- Despite the general shift towards tages in terms of speedier construction and carbon sequestration, some being constructed with masonry. still are projects low energy was enclosed within the insulation. This form of construction has no the insulation. This form of was enclosed within full mechanical ventilation. at all, so requires breathability 2011) and it is disappointing (BRE Innovation Park Innovation Park projects with the buildings. problems any from that it is not easy to learn lessons has been quite a lot of 2009). There Gaze gives a superficial analysis (Gaze that the BRE had ‘turned its back on media criticism such as the claim growth focus on commercial in favour of a narrow evidence-based research of English to Kevin McGeough gimmicks’, according and unproven Partnerships (Olcayto 2008). House’, was the only other House’ and also called ‘The Natural Prince’s Natural Building (from constructed using natural materials project may not have been The house was slow to build, but this Technologies). other issues such as funding and man- due to the materials or design but mortar bed solid walls, Pavatex wood agement. Hollow clay block with thin used. wool insulation were and sheep’s fibre Table 7.3 7.3 Table Masonry construction for low energy houses Masonry construction for low energy

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Other solutions for low energy housing 206 Masonry construction for low energy houses 207 mechanical heat recovery systems for ventila- mechanical heat recovery active It is possible to construct passiv haus buildings using natural renewable natural renewable passiv haus buildings using It is possible to construct using ecological possible to find passiv haus projects it is However, with using and to have no problem Most Passiv haus practitioners seem Construction have built two Hafod Housing Association with Holbrook The term ‘passiv haus’ is a curious one, as the passiv haus concept using the term an alternative to passiv haus has emerged recently, More Bill Butcher of Green Building Store Ltd was a key figure in the develop- a key figure Ltd was Building Store of Green Bill Butcher Denby Dale passiv haus. The ‘first’ UK’s billed as is frequently ment of what walls. The enormously masonry cavity constructed with was also project web- Insulation’s illustrated on Knauf well are at Denby Dale wide cavities Bill Butcher is an used was glass wool (Knauf 2012). site, as the insulation than important is much more that operational energy advocate of the idea used to Building Store, Green his company, even though embodied energy His move away building methods and materials. be a pioneer of ecological based to synthetic petrochemical friendly materials environmentally from acceptable in low are accept that such products has led many to products housing. energy to do this. but few in the UK have so far chosen materials, and breathable and to materials or embodied energy refer haus rarely Advocates of passiv says, Architects of Devereux sustainable materials. Siddall, do not promote with- low carbon design standard’ THE low energy, ‘Passiv haus is arguably by 2012). In a presentation (Siddall out any mention of embodied energy in 2010, the only insula- Passiv Haus Conference Feist, at the UK Wolfgang part of the 2009). Isover, (Feist tion material shown is an Isover product. of fibreglass. the leading manufacturers are St Gobain group, a three- For instance, some in Germany. are materials in Austria, and there used natural the Catholic Church building for timber frame office storey was cellulose, though some rockwool insulation, mainly hemp and some a U-value of 0.11 (Christophorous giving safety reasons also used for fire Haus 2012). companies like Schuco and Sheerframe, certifying uPVC windows made by to uPVC. The claimed energy objections despite the many environmental ahead of the negative taken performance of uPVC windows are efficiency impact (EAS 2012). environmental that use uPVC windows but Wales passiv haus certified houses in South stabiliser’ an ‘organic of lead, using free claim that their uPVC windows are (Litchfield 2012). the use of requires passive in its operation. The benign concept of pas- tion and is far from though many passiv haus designs sive solar design has been taken over, its do include southerly orientation to use solar gain. This is not without is not ade- houses can then overheat if there as super-airtight problems quate shading! in is now an Active House Alliance, with an office Active House, and there Rotterdam. Passiv haus at Denby Dale at Denby haus Passiv

2 R. (Eriksen 2010) (BBC News 2010) Showhouse Magazine The TPR panels are bolted together to form the load bearing frame of the The TPR panels are brick, block or stone, with the interior house which can be externally clad with recycled is tiled from as any other house. The roof insulated and plastered materials. Active House is a vision of buildings that create healthier and more comfort- more and healthier that create of buildings a vision House is Active on the climate and negatively without impacting for their residents able lives world. healthier and safer a cleaner, moving us towards – thus environment TPR is Thermo Poly Rock in which plastic waste, that might have gone to TPR is Thermo Poly Rock in which plastic waste, that might have gone Photographs of the house, with walls apparently made out of TPR plastic Photographs of the house, with walls apparently 2010). in various newspapers in 2010 (Andrews waste, appeared and was apparently landfill, is mixed with a polyunsaturated polyester resin as a housing solution by cast walls. This idea was promoted used to create of housing (Goodier the future on Pan in their RICS report Goodier and Wei structural frame TPR as a is now promoting Pan 2012). Affresol and Wei house, other material rather than to make solid walls. In a second prototype materials will be used for walls and insulation with the plastic composite being used for the frame. and light levels within the dwellings. It will automatically adjust the window and light levels within the dwellings. indoor comfort levels required, and blind positions to suit the optimum an not offer Active house does literature. to the promotional according 2012). (Velux system. expensive assessment and approval to achieve Code house, claimed a low energy A curious attempt to produce developed in Swansea in South Wales Level 5, is a modular house system scheme. This is Fast Track Entrepreneurs with the help of the Carbon Trust TPR. form of construction made of a non-timber-frame The Active House group appears to advocate a more holistic and flexible holistic to advocate a more appears House group The Active industrial companies a wide range of is underwritten by but it approach, Corporation these include the Velux and architects; and a few universities They insulation). polyurethane (who manufacture and SPU Insulation – the the endorsement of Connie Hedegaard secured seemed to have for Climate Action. In Commissioner European in a recent virtues of passiv and active houses the Hunt claims to compare even mentions the He how the two differ. explaining article without really system, but it is isn’t in Swindon and its ventilation RHP project Triangle 2012). An example is meant to be an active house (Hunt clear whether this Light Corporation Carbon appears to be the Velux of an active house of velux number UK. Distinguished by a very large houses in Kettering, of health the active house concept this promotes on the roof rooflights daylight. This is managed by a being enhanced by having maximum system that monitors the heat, CO WindowMaster building management Plastic house Affresol

Other solutions for low energy housing 208 Blaming the occupants 209 (Janda 2011) (UK Economic and Social Research Council 2009) (UK Economic and Social Research can have five or six pieces of mechanical and can have five or six pieces of mechanical 2 In theory, we might imagine something similar in relation to showering expe- we might imagine something similar in relation In theory, ‘mists’; deodorising wiping, or rience – perhaps in the form of refreshing The seminar explored how collaborative physical science and social science The seminar explored cut carbon to to Government and industry efforts can contribute research buildings emissions from To fully address the task ahead … architects need to develop their profes- the task ahead … architects fully address To buildings and seek ways of integrating user sional expertise to improve a pro- that from is argued it involvement in building performance. Moreover, to develop a leadership role architects fessional standpoint, it may be wise for given the lowest scope of their profession. in this area The title of a seminar organised by the UK Economic and Social Research and Social Research by the UK Economic The title of a seminar organised This issue begins with the relatively simple and acceptable idea that simple and acceptable with the relatively This issue begins complicated with increasingly stuffed houses and buildings are However, electrical equipment that can go wrong or are hard to manage. Landlords Landlords to manage. hard are or electrical equipment that can go wrong and even training on information and house builders often claim to provide done well. Involving is rarely but in practice this how to use the technology, and sensible step for professionals. building users may seem an obvious One of the speakers, Elisabeth Shove, from Lancaster University, clearly Lancaster University, One of the speakers, Elisabeth Shove, from and suggested thinks that having a shower every day is a misuse of energy changing attitudes to alternative ways of keeping clean! However a body of academic literature has begun to emerge in which the begun to emerge has However a body of academic literature than the designers or rather blamed for these problems occupants are installers. game away when you see that it was Council (ESRC) in 2009 gives the Buildings’. called ‘How People Use and Misuse The question of why the construction industry rarely achieves energy achieves energy rarely construction industry of why the The question It is relatively 5 and 6. discussed in Chapters has been targets efficiency or techno- may be the design even though it the builders’ easy to ‘blame among environmental a surprising tendency is at fault. However, logy that that blames the occupants of houses emerged academics has and energy savings. to achieve energy for the failure educated about the and buildings need to be better occupants of houses such as taken by occupants often measures Very energy. benefits of saving better energy in result and adding lined curtains can adjusting thermostats Occupants costs increase. also save money as energy performance and can air conditioning systems in hot countries where also need to manage environment a colder than necessary indoor creating often be set too high, problems. leading to health occupants to understand the for harder and expensive equipment, so it is rented Even tiny socially the technology. way to control most effective m houses of less than 100 Blaming the occupants the Blaming (ESRC 2009) some other kind of relaxing body treatment. Making more efficient technolo- efficient more Making treatment. body of relaxing other kind some showering as a daily is to dislodge challenge but if the real gies is important, kind of experience the specific through task is one of thinking habit, the be redefined. and how that might offered, Projects like Ronan Point, Red Road Flats, Divis Flats, Hunslet Grange, like Ronan Point, Red Road Flats, Projects important campaigns for the demolition were the UK there Throughout *Partial Collapse of Ronan Point Larsen–Nielson building system, killed 4 people and injured *Partial Collapse of Ronan Point Larsen–Nielson building system, killed 4 people and injured 17 others (Pearson 2005) The problem of introducing new technologies and construction methods, new technologies and of introducing The problem by housing occupants is not a not fully understood or accepted that are Building Agency (NBA) was a new one. In the 1960s the National the system building task of approving government-funded body given the concrete of high-rise the many hundreds used to create methods that were in failure such a disastrous that were tower block and deck access schemes Harold Labour Prime Minister, of the 1970s and 80s. This was the result to Speech which led to a willingness ‘White Heat of Technology’ Wilson’s to clear away old ‘slums’ and technology embrace untried and unproven panel systems. them with concrete replace demolished, some quite and were Moss Side and Hulme became notorious these schemes, built. The NBA literally rubber-stamped soon after they were actually used a rubber stamp saying as they had a man at a desk who the drawings of the various systems as they came in. There on ‘Approved’ Some developments like stamp. did not appear to be a ‘Not Approved’ people moved in. knocked down even before one in Glasgow Gorbals were demolition of of these developments. In one case this achieved a forensic in his Ronan Point.* Dunleavy has explained the politics of this process influence, making it excellent study of corporate power and professional between volume builders and unsavoury relationships were clear that there was the complicity of architects political parties. What he also uncovered Should we go down to Supadrug and buy a load of deodorising wipes, to load of deodorising and buy a go down to Supadrug Should we overlooks the alcohol and save the planet? This cut down on showers damage to even more in such wipes that might be doing VOCs often used at the same seminar to Shipworth according However, the environment! is an but there ‘we tend to blame all this on occupants’ they accept that physics)’ and of how buildings work (building ‘incomplete understanding comfort’ ‘how people use buildings to create is a need to understand there convincingly that social more argue Owens and Driffill (Shipworth 2009). the attitude to play in understanding how a useful role scientists can have might be misused to changed but they accept that this of people can be technologies (Owens 2008). acceptance of certain force Back to the 60s and 70s – déjà vu Back to the 60s and 70s – déjà

Other solutions for low energy housing 210 Back to the 60s and 70s – déjà vu 211 (viewed 27.10.11)
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There are many different current approaches to energy efficient house construction in the UK. Some of these were illustrated in Chapters 3 & 7, ranging from low cost solutions by commercial developers and social land- lords to highly expensive passiv haus projects for one-off clients. A wide range of materials and construction methods can also be seen, from tradi- tional masonry adapted to low energy standards to timber frame, structural insulated panels, solid timber and even solid plastic! There is a danger that the Renewable House Programme (RHP) projects will be forgotten in the confusion caused by so many different approaches. Many architects and the construction industry in general, remain very confused about how to proceed with low energy houses, and official guid- ance, standards and regulations only add to the confusion. Research and academic work is either used to validate the use of petrochemical based materials for large suppliers or is critical of current construction methods. Very little good work is being done to simplify and select the most effective and affordable approaches. Furthermore, the policy focus has shifted away from new build to renovating the existing stock of buildings. This has dis- tracted attention from learning the lessons of recent new build experi- ments. Many thousands of new build houses are still required in the UK and across the world and it is important that these are built well, to decent standards of space, design and construction. The focus on retrofit may be correct, as there are far more existing build- ings than those that will be newly built, and much energy is wasted from the current stock of houses and other buildings that were built to much lower standards. As with new build there are many attempts to use synthetic petrochemical based insulation and other materials in retrofit and renova- tion. Many of these materials are unsuitable for use with old buildings and are likely to lead to serious damage and decay. The thermal performance is unlikely to be as good as claimed. Natural and renewable materials, on the

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

215 buildings. buildings. (Guardian 2012a) (Guardian (Guardian 2012b) (Guardian At the end of last year, with little warning, the nascent solar industry was with little warning, the nascent solar year, At the end of last for clean energy. when ministers decided to slash support plunged into chaos for solar to cut subsidies has said it has been forced The German government to support the was so high it could no longer afford panels, because demand technology. green Natural and renewable materials and building fabric solutions on the materials and building Natural and renewable in the RHP it should be clear that As the level of grant varied so widely and natural materials should not be seen as just The use of renewable Despite the recognition in some quarters that improving the fabric of the quarters that improving in some the recognition Despite Despite undertakings to reduce carbon emissions, green policies are being policies are green carbon emissions, Despite undertakings to reduce has been to leave energy tendency downplayed and instead the increasing solutions for both It is likely that many novel to market forces. measures other techno- and energy house building methods, renewable low energy as they fail to have commercial logical solutions will fall by the wayside there Due to this market free-for-all success in a very competitive market. and specifications that guidance as to standards has been very little official the building of requirements other than the normal would be approved, regulations. to much government grant and subsidy other hand have not been subject they will be It is to be hoped that, as a result, the RHP. in the UK, apart from the absence of government recession, in a better position to withstand the is able to stand on its own feet. There support and be an industry that is case. some evidence that this may be the to do using the materials and more the subsidy had much less to do with While natural and renewable with the feasibility of particular projects. it is costly than synthetic products, a little more materials may remain this book that such materials will important not to draw the conclusion from subsidised. only be used if they are surpris- another short-lived experiment in a chaotic marketplace. So far, most companies manufacturing or selling natural and renewable ingly, and falling fund- materials have managed to survive, despite the recession for materials. If ecological solutions can survive in a difficult ing and orders a longer-term market without significant subsidy then this should ensure survival. other hand, can be used much more effectively in old and existing existing old and in effectively much more be used hand, can other book! the subject of another will have to be This, however, UK to save energy, way and effective is the most important buildings and subsidies emphasis more instead put much policies have Government and other technical energy renewable generators of as micro on houses increased energy renewable as soon as However, and mechanical measures. that this began to realise Europe governments throughout in popularity, or withdrawn subsidies, leaving have reduced and was a costly approach badly let down. industry feeling energy the renewable tors, Often the middle men do not hold any stocks of materials or even run men do not hold any stocks of materials Often the middle do a good also middlemen and some eco distributors who are are There of materials such producers powerful multinational The bigger and more manufac- are products The majority of ecological, natural and renewable has been much cooperation, even between competi Despite this there Unfortunately the current economic downturn may mean that there has that there mean may downturn economic the current Unfortunately and the establishment of the Alliance for Sustainable Building Products and the establishment of the Alliance for Sustainable Building Products One of the most significant threats to survival can be seen in the problem the problem to survival can be seen in significant threats One of the most is full of middlemen – construction materials industry of supply chains. The purchasing group materials or organise that distribute organisations thus are middlemen take a cut and than saving money, schemes. Rather down. of the producers prices up and the profits involved in pushing a slice while doing they simply act as agents, taking their own transport; may go straight The materials the orders. very little, other than processing paperwork has a much to the building site, but the the manufacturers from are several hands. Manufacturers passing through complicated route, more a wide try to ensure with such middlemen to to sign agreements forced materials directly impossible to source distribution network, and it is often this. with distributors prohibit the factory as agreements from to clients. Builders merchants education and information job providing as However, industry. in the construction have played an important role natural and renewable do not stock certain merchants many large-scale or synthetic materials. contractors will try to substitute inferior products, of the mar- control a much stronger as Kingspan, St Gobain and Knauf, have the ignorance heavily on volumes of sales. They rely greater ket and ensure to discriminate between the unable of specifiers and customers who are claims. As illustrated of environmental genuine and the slick marketing in Chapter with generic descriptions in interchangeable 5, trade names are choosing less well known and harder day-to-day practice. Resisting this and and a commitment to environmental extra effort materials requires to source their clients. principles on the part of designers and smaller companies but most follow conventional capitalist modes by tured though many have higher ethical and certainly of business and commerce, few examples of alternative business are There standards. environmental use- models such as cooperatives, even though these might be particularly The majority of businesses ful in dealing with the middleman problem. have the fighting for survival and rarely working in the ecological field are luxury of exploring other ways of doing business. They have to operate within the market that exists. been insufficient investment in innovation and it has been difficult for com- been difficult and it has investment in innovation been insufficient new Despite this, costs. and thus reduce production increase panies to pay a still willing to are the time and customers appearing all are products by natural and renewa- offered quality and performance for the little more ble materials. Middlemen

A future for renewable materials? 216 Postscript 217 innovation? competition Home Insulation – A article on Letchworth is anything article on Letchworth carried out by the OFT August 2012 OFT carried out by the OFT August 2012 RIBA Journal between players, and are there significant barriers to entry and there between players, and are insulation, and the prices paid for them, varied over time? However, the report is still a useful document in that it addresses the is still a useful document in that it addresses the report However, The RHP will have introduced many to more environmental solutions for solutions environmental to more many will have introduced The RHP to go by. For many ‘insulation is insulation’ and even timber frame con- is insulation’ and even timber For many ‘insulation to go by. groups even by progressive and risky, as novel struction is still regarded to be is a big education job There Cohousing project. like the Lancaster rec- makers and the general public policy that professionals, done in order of human choices have to be made in all forms ognise that environmental of fitting highly expensive shiny bits is not about Saving energy activity. low sensible it is about much simpler and more roofs; glass and metal to or even seen when a glamorous not as that sadly are impact measures that we can replace with resources building is complete. If we can build be the planet then this should surely while doing very little damage to the way forward. (OFT) of Fair Trading the UK Office Subsequent to writing this book, materials, on insulation published an important report on the Call for Evidence report The 1433 (http://www.oft.gov.uk/news-and-updates/press/2012/66-12). sector as £700–800 million highlights the value of the UK insulation report the called for evidence from expected. The OFT with significant growth because of complaints about an alleged public and industry on 3 April 2012, This call for evidence had been on lack of competition in the supply chain. about 100 issued, but only were releases the OFT website, and press build- Like many others involved in sustainable received. were responses which was particularly of this OFT ‘consultation’, ing, I was unaware them with a complaint about public frustrating as I had myself contacted in information based products sector bodies only listing petrochemical the OFT did not notify and guidance (see Chapter 5 page 141 ). However, insulation materials in natural, renewable me and they completely ignored, their study as they said that no one raised this in the consultation! following four issues: 1) strong of the insulation supply chain – is there Effectiveness 2) of installation level, how have the volumes At the downstream (ASBP 2012) and their promotion of Natureplus (Natureplus 2012) certifica- 2012) (Natureplus of Natureplus promotion their 2012) and (ASBP to challenge and a willingness confidence of a new found tion is evidence and building methods materials to take alternative industry mainstream niche. a green and move it out of seriously have impact this will gauge how much to is hard though it house building, TV audi- to mainstream hempcrete may have brought had. Grand Designs programmes. explanation in the two not get a proper ences but it did use unlikely to understand the are some the projects Journal articles about materials if the of renewable Postscript insulation and petrochemical petrochemical . (emphasis added) pricing but technical problems with insulation materials. with insulation pricing but technical problems It is important that monitoring is seen to be independent of the companies quality? Is it installed in suitable properties? it installed in suitable quality? Is consumers? involved in the installations, in order to avoid any possibility and perception to avoid any possibility and perception involved in the installations, in order of bias and also to allow sample sizes to be varied so as to be representative Deal Providers. Green of installations and across sub-groups different across We believe that the monitoring framework under the Green Deal ….. could believe that the monitoring framework under the Green We and installers Deal Providers incentives for Green be designed to give clearer to maintain high quality of installation In relation to quality of installation, some respondents raised concerns that to quality of installation, some respondents In relation the most suitable form of insulation for consumers sometimes do not receive told that, in part, this is because installers and energy were their home. We installed to number of measures suppliers have an incentive to get a certain rather than necessarily to install insulation to meet meet their targets, should Deal assessment process individual consumers’ needs. The new Green this concern. help address Many of the issues in the report reflect concerns about retrofitting concerns about retrofitting reflect Many of the issues in the report One of the main criticisms of the Green Deal is that it will be run by finance Deal One of the main criticisms of the Green organisa- the least well placed companies and these are energy and large the technical aspects of tions to have any understanding of likely to do deals with most are building performance. These organisations will get little pro- suppliers and the consumer product the big petrochemical and foam products only deals with plastic this. The OFT report tection from on natural materials. based without mentioning other products mineral fibre OFT insulation, a topic, outside the scope of this book, and despite the Deal they do issue some warnings in the report: enthusiasm for the Green 3) a high to installed insulation appropriate – is of installation Quality 4) for redress adequate is there –if things go wrong, Consumer redress about the extensive some concerns ‘heard explained that they The OFT also received to distributors. We manufacturers paid by large use of rebates (RPM) price maintenance allegations of attempted resale a small number of based petrochemical complaints of large level.’ Anecdotal at the retail and price fixing manipulating the market with discounts insulation suppliers acts to the way this is done (if it exists) commonplace, and the are who do not smaller alternative insulation companies disadvantage of the construc- to larger sales. Often distributors will sell direct have high volume if they can too keen to substitute materials only are tion companies who specifiers architects, undermining the intentions of get a cheaper price, way very deeply into the failed to probe The OFT report and their clients. conclusion that it was operates and came to the the construction industry so the study, detailed not necessary for them carry out a more The a big sigh of relief. breathed insulation companies have undoubtedly of the Green the prospects places undue emphasis on OFT report Deal(see page they identified, not just solving many of the problems 139) about

A future for renewable materials? 218 Postscript 219 websites Given the small scale of the renewable materials industry, it has few it has few materials industry, scale of the renewable Given the small appeal-solar-subsidies solar-power-subsidies oft.gov.uk/news-and-updates/press/2012/66-12) ASBP 2012 www.asbp.org.uk 2012a http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/jan/13/government- Guardian 2012b http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/mar/02/germany-cuts- Guardian (http://www. 2012 http://www.natureplus.org/en/current-news/home Natureplus Given the issues discussed in this book about the lack of understanding of of understanding lack of about the book in this discussed the issues Given materials technical issues with confusion about physics and the building monitor- independent to see where it is hard of buildings, and performance a call has to is that such surprising What is even more from. ing will come of building no technical understanding which has the OFT, come from consumer for post installation to the need OFT also points issues! The an independent body, be available from should Such protection protection. as it renovated, are new buildings as well as those that for the owners of Insulation guarantees and warranties. to enforce will be next to impossible of damp- for problems responsibility unlikely to accept are manufacturers complexity performance. The as well as poor energy ness or condensation to apportion difficult means that it can be very of building construction and material between builders, designers go wrong blame, when things issues by keeping says that it will keep an eye on these suppliers. The OFT trading and by working with local authority review the market under departments. standards official to devote to lobbying Government and scanning resources a very different would have gathered for news of consultations. The OFT if it had chosen to look of insulation materials perspective on the nature of synthetic and manufacturers beyond a small number of large-scale this that it will revisit and it is to be hoped based products, petrochemical Deal schemes and Green retrofitting from when inevitable problems situation will not be improved in the next few years. The become apparent build- to relax plans, as we go to press, by the UK Government announcing tape and boost building construc- red to reduce in order ing regulations tion. It is a gloomy outlook. References Glossary/Abbreviations

Acrylic Acrylic paints are commonly used in mainstream building construc- tion. They are based on synthetic petrochemical polymer materials but can be diluted with water and are regarded as less harmful than paints made with solvents. However, they still contain a range of chemicals including fungicides. They are often referred to as breathable but the manufacturers of breathable natural paints dispute this. AECB The UK Sustainable Building Association, was previously known as the Association for Environmentally Conscious Building. www.aecb.net ARC-PEACE Architects, designers and planners committed to building in a socially responsible way a peaceful, just and an environmentally sustainable future. http://arcpeace.org/web/ ASA Advertising Standards Authority. www.asa.org.uk ASBP Alliance for Sustainable Building Products. www.asbp.org.uk

Baumit A proprietary lime based render which includes some cement and sand and additives, sometimes applied with an adhesive BBA British Board of Agrement www.bbacerts.co.uk/ Bio-based Materials from construction that are derived from natural plant based material such as wood fibre or hemp Bioregional Environmental NGO in the UK. www.bioregional.com. Also is used as a generic term for ecological activities BIS UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills www.bis.gov.uk/ BRE UK Building Research Establishment www.bre.co.uk/ Breathe Natural insulation quilt made from hemp and flax by Hemp Technology Ltd BREEAM Building assessment method developed by the BRE www. breeam.org/ Brundtland The most commonly quoted definition of sustainable deve- lopment

Carbon sequestration The storage or locking up of carbon dioxide in a

material or storage facility to reduce CO2 emissions

Carbon spike Rapid emissions of CO2 due to human activity. A term used

to explain major emissions of CO2 at the start of an activity rather than over the life of a project Carnego UK consultancy company involved in monitoring energy use www.carnegosystems.com CAT Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales www.cat.org.uk/

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Glossary/Abbreviations 221 contract emissions) used to 2 A measure of the energy (and CO of the energy A measure Chemical found in a wide range of products and adhesives, Chemical found in a wide range of products A consultancy in Birmingham, which was awarded a was awarded A consultancy in Birmingham, which A wide range of organisations provide methods for measur- provide A wide range of organisations Environmental Protection Agency Ireland www.epa.ie Agency Ireland Protection Environmental A form of collectively owned housing with shared facilities facilities owned housing with shared A form of collectively European Insulation Manufacturers Association www.eurima.org/ Insulation Manufacturers European The European Union Construction Products Directive Products Union Construction The European Private development company based in Birmingham called Linford called Linford company based in Birmingham Private development UK Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs www. Rural Affairs Food and UK Department of Environment, Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers www. www. Services Engineers of Building Institution Chartered UK Government Department of Energy and Climate Change www. and UK Government Department of Energy Construction Industry Research and Information Association www. Information Association and Industry Research Construction Community in a cube, housing project in Middlesbrough, UK in Middlesbrough, project in a cube, housing Community European Construction Industry Federation. www.fiec.org Construction Industry Federation. European Northern Ireland Department for Social Development www.dsdni. Department for Social Development Northern Ireland Continuing professional development. Continuing professional Combined heat and power Combined Co-operative Development Services www.cds.coop Services Development Co-operative Code for Sustainable Homes, A UK system of awarding points for points Homes, A UK system of awarding Code for Sustainable Environmental Product Declaration Product Environmental Forest Stewardship Council www.fsc-uk.org/ Stewardship Forest UK Energy Saving Trust www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ Saving Trust UK Energy Cross laminated timber, solid timber panels made with strips of wood solid timber panels made laminated timber, Cross manufacture and deliver a material or product, sometimes referred to as to referred sometimes and deliver a material or product, manufacture has been as the energy which is a misleading term embedded energy the product consumed, and is not embedded in to monitor the RHP www.emission-zero.com/index.htm ing carbon used by an individual or organisation (cancer causing) and irritant. It is associated classified as a carcinogen and dermatitis. It was used as a biocide and for embalming, with allergies In the EU, the maximum allowed con- but is banned for these in Europe. is 0.2%, and any product centration of formaldehyde in finished products contains that exceeds 0.05% has to include a warning that the product seems to be the case in construction formaldehyde, though this rarely materials and products. glued together gov.uk/ cibse.org/ ciria.org/ www.cohousing.org.uk/ for housing performance and energy environmental CZERO Ltd. www.czero.com decc.gov.uk/ defra.gov.uk/ Emission Zero Emission Zero Ireland EPA EPD EST EURIMA FIEC Footprinting Formaldehyde FSC Cohousing Embodied energy CDS CDS CHP CIAC CIBSE CIRIA CLT CSH CPD CPD-EU CZERO DECC DEFRA DSD buildings A much-criticised system for awarding system for awarding A much-criticised The chopped up straw of the plant once the fibre has once the fibre The chopped up straw of the plant The science of how a material deals with moisture The science of how a material deals A private development company established by Kevin company established by A private development An in-home computer system developed for the Hab Oakus system developed for the Hab An in-home computer The hemp plant produces very tough fibre which can be which very tough fibre The hemp plant produces A much-criticised measure introduced by the Conservative the Conservative by introduced measure A much-criticised iso-cynates are mixed with polyols to make polyurethane insu- mixed with polyols to make polyurethane iso-cynates are A method of constructing insulating walls with the name A method of constructing insulating Trade name for a wood wool slab, which used to be described as name for a wood wool slab, which used to be described Trade Homes and Communities Agency www.homesandcommunities. Homes and Communities A method for gluing together strips of timber to create very to create strips of timber for gluing together A method The International Building Performance Simulation Association The International Building Performance The plant Cannabis sativa, being the drug-free version of cannabis drug-free The plant Cannabis sativa, being the Knauf Insulation Ltd (St Helens, UK) but in 75 countries, a German Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust Joseph Rowntree Good Homes Alliance www.goodhomes.org.uk/ Alliance Homes Good indoor air quality, a measure of the levels of pollutants inside of the levels of pollutants inside a measure indoor air quality, International Standards Organisation www.iso.org/ Organisation International Standards Inventory of Carbon and Energy compiled by Bath University www. compiled Inventory of Carbon and Energy Integrated Environmental Solutions computer performance modelling Solutions computer Integrated Environmental bath.ac.uk/mech-eng/research/sert www.iesve.com/ in lation. Methyl isocyanate was the toxic chemical that killed thousands in fire- have occurred problems Serious respiratory the Bhopal disaster. and isocyanates spillages and fires men exposed to polyurethane of mineral, said to be family-owned in Bavaria. Manufacturer company, strong structural beams and columns structural strong retrofitting to encourage in the UK (DECC) Government Liberal Coalition private organisations funded by various to be property, of existing green attempting to set up alternative authorities are though some local www.greendealinitiative.co.uk/ deal measures and materials to most building products classifications’ ‘environmental www.bre.co.uk/greenguide www.haboakus.co.uk group with the GreenSquare McCloud working development in Swindon Triangle co.uk/ generic names not registered by Lime Technology; registered Hemcrete and hemp-lime hempcrete are varieties of other versions and many hundreds are or marijuana; there the stalk stripped off been stripped off since being taken over by Knauf, only made with magnesium silicate but, to www.heraklith.com/ a mineral binder is referred IBPSA ICE IES ISO Iso-cyanate JRHT Knauf GHA GHA Glu-lam Deal Green Guide to Specification Green HAB OAKUS HAB Shimmy HCA UK Hempcrete Hemp Hemp fibre Hemp shiv or hurd Heraklith Hygroscopicity IAQ

Glossary/Abbreviations 222 Glossary/Abbreviations 223 Claimed to be a low carbon alterative to cement, it is Claimed to be a low carbon alterative Magnesium carbonate, used as a binder in board and other binder in board Magnesium carbonate, used as a Materials used in building construction that are derived from derived from that are Materials used in building construction A proprietary name for a form of prefabricated construction using name for a form of prefabricated A proprietary A multinational lime products company that owns the ‘Tradical’ company that owns the ‘Tradical’ products A multinational lime Man made mineral fibre as used in insulation Man made mineral fibre Mutual Home Ownership Society, one of a number of models of one of a number Mutual Home Ownership Society, Mechanical ventilation and heat recovery, an electrical powered an electrical powered Mechanical ventilation and heat recovery, Mineralwool Insulation Manufacturers Association, previously previously Association, Mineralwool Insulation Manufacturers Low Impact Living Affordable Community (Leeds) www.lilac.coop Low Impact Living Affordable Modern Methods of Construction, usually assumed to mean pre- Local Authority Building Control www.labc.uk.com/ Building Control Local Authority US Green Building Council rating system for slightly greener build- rating system for slightly greener Building Council US Green Low Carbon Building Programme, a UK Government acronym for a UK Government acronym Programme, Low Carbon Building Leeds Metropolitan University Leeds Metropolitan Low Carbon Innovation Fund: Another UK Government acronym that acronym Fund: Another UK Government Low Carbon Innovation life cycle analysis, a life cycle assessment (LCA) is the assessment of of is the assessment assessment (LCA) analysis, a life cycle life cycle Low Impact Development policy: initially introduced in Pembrokeshire, in Pembrokeshire, introduced Low Impact Development policy: initially system to import fresh air which can be heated by heat extracted from air which can be heated by heat extracted from system to import fresh a building. This is normally a stale air which is being evacuated from though it is not a passive of meeting the passiv haus standard requirement system strawbales compressed into timber frames www.modcell.com strawbales compressed glass fibre, polyfoam insulations, plasterboard and owner of Heraklith of Heraklith and owner plasterboard insulations, polyfoam fibre, glass wood wool its lifespan throughout product impact of a given the environmental soon as it as impact buildings which disappeared constructing low instal- energy for grant funding of renewable and is now used appeared lations www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=1332 https:// fund but a new version now exists: as a general disappeared www.lowcarbonfund.co.uk/LCIF/ ings www.usgbc.org materials www.lhoist.co.uk/Frame_Home.htm brand of hemp-lime Planet Development as the One Wales this is now adopted throughout www.lammas. Advice Note 6), best accessed through policy (Technical org.uk/lowimpact/index.htm carbonate but not as widely building materials, similar to calcium occurring to moisture and has a high resistance used in composite boards chemical and manufacturing where synthetic rather than materials, or any natural characteristics remove processes house occupants may where collective or cooperative home ownership www.cds.coop in the equity of the property have a share known as EURISOL www.mima.info methods, usually using synthetic manmade fabricated or off-site materials MVHR LABC LCA LCBP LCIF LEED LHOIST LID LILAC LMU Magnesite Magnesium silicate Manmade MHOS MIMA MMC MMMF Modcell Wood fibre products made in Switzerland made in Switzerland products fibre Wood There are number of passiv haus organisations in the UK number of passiv haus organisations are There UK Government website giving access to planning and A certification standard for ecological materials widely used materials widely for ecological standard A certification National Non-food Crops Centre www.nnfcc.co.uk Centre Crops National Non-food A proprietary additive used in some render systems as a form of a form of as systems some render used in additive A proprietary Also known as carbolic acid, largely derived from oil, one of the from derived Also known as carbolic acid, largely Poly brominated di-phenol ethers, a family of highly dangerous of highly dangerous di-phenol ethers, a family Poly brominated A name for a wide range of chemicals including those used to make Post-Occupancy Review of Buildings and their Engineering www. National Building Agency, a UK Government agency in the 1960s and Government agency in the 1960s a UK Agency, National Building Oriented strand board, a form of wooden building board in which in which form of wooden building board a Oriented strand board, Natural Building Technologies, one of the leading UK distributors of of the leading UK distributors of one Natural Building Technologies, Rigid polyurethane insulation similar to PIR Rigid polyurethane Polyvinyl acetates, used in a wide range of relatively safe glues Polyvinyl acetates, used in a wide range of relatively Polyisocynaurate (rigid) insulation, similar to PUR but available from NBT in the UK www.pavatex.com/ but available from in widely used in flame retardants synthetic chemicals that have been materials including syn- and construction furnishings, electrical products bound to the prod- not chemically thetic insulation materials. They are and into the environment, used so can leach out ucts in which they are PCBs as replacing they are as high risk in the USA where regarded are in the Arctic. contaminant particularly organohalogen the most prevalent range of alternative chemi- seems lower and a wide Concern in Europe www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchem- products now used in different cals are icals/pubs/actionplans/pbde.html which a wide range of plastics and synthetic materi- from basic products neurotoxin it is a dangerous based; als are scraps of timber are glued together, often using phenol or urea formal- phenol or urea often using together, glued scraps of timber are used in cur- glue; OSB is widely and carcinogenic dehyde, a highly toxic a small in MMC and SIPS construction; construction, particularly rent they describe as ‘safe’ resins OSB with what number of companies offer is though there most of which seem to collaborate, and internationally, (BRE) www.passivhaus.org.uk/ also some competition for certification. www. www.passivehouse-international.org www.passivhaustrust.org.uk sphc.co.uk www.planningportal.gov.uk building regulations insulation polyurethane usablebuildings.co.uk/ waterproofing (not best specific to the only awarded certificates Europe; throughout usage have a very low petrochemical which must only products, generic) www.natureplus.org/ is an Irish certified ‘system’ building; there and 1970s that promoted Agency which still exists National Building www.natural-building.co.uk building products ecological and natural PBDEs Phenol PIR. Planning Portal Passivhaus/SPHC Pavatex/Diffutherm/Pavaflex Polyol Probe PUR PVA OSB Nanosil Nanosil Natureplus NBA NBT NNFCC

Glossary/Abbreviations 224 Glossary/Abbreviations 225 ‘Renewable and biodegradable materials not only ‘Renewable and Fleece sheared from sheep used in clothing, carpets and from Fleece sheared A form of cladding used on buildings, can be made from from used on buildings, can be made A form of cladding A range of proprietary building boards that use magnesium that use building boards A range of proprietary Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical Authorisation and Restriction Registration, Evaluation, See magnesium silicate Flowering succulent plants commonly known as stonecrops, they Flowering succulent plants commonly known as stonecrops, Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry Toxicology Society of Environmental Simplified Building Energy Model Simplified Building Energy Royal Institute of British Architects Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Royal Institute of Chartered Renewable House Programme, set up by UK Government Department set up by UK Renewable House Programme, engineers, scientists architects, Scientists for Global Responsibility, Polyvinyl chloride also known as uPVC and PVCu, one of the most of the most one and PVCu, as uPVC known also chloride Polyvinyl www.raeng.org.uk of Engineering. Royal Academy Standard Assessment Procedure, DECC’s methodology for assessing DECC’s Assessment Procedure, Standard controversial substances widely used in buildings and building materials, building materials, in buildings and widely used substances controversial by some, and health the environment to as highly dangerous regarded industry by the PVC discounted issues largely wall from many other materials to shed rain panels and timber boards, surfaces in 2007 introduced Regulations that were of European Substances, a set http://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/reach/reach_intro.htm to less problematic but also are preparation, in their consume less energy materials are end of their useful life. Renewable dispose of at the plant, animal or ecosystem which living tree, a from substances derived material can be pro- itself. A renewable regenerate has the ability to when we use plantation wood to duced again and again. For example, mineral it. Earth’s to replace trees make paper we can plant more can but timber resources finite, and often energy-intensive, are resources benefits’. www. environmental with strong indefinitely, be produced csiro.au/Outcomes/Materials-and-Manufacturing/Innovation/renewable- biodegradable-materials.aspx lime construction. www.resistant. silicate and have been used with hemp co.uk/ www.homesandcommunities. DECC in 2009 but no longer in existence co.uk/ourwork/renewable-construction of dwellings, performance and environmental and comparing the energy of dwelling assessments accurate and reliable its purpose is to provide and environ- energy needed to underpin performances that are energy mental policy initiatives www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/emissions/ sap/sap.aspx with little soil, commonly used in have water storing leaves and can grow roofs’ ‘green technologists www.sgr.org.uk/ insulation etc. PVC PVC RAE Rainscreen REACH Renewable materials Resistant RHP RIBA RICS SAP SBEM Sedum SETAC SGR wool Sheep’s Silicate buildings. UK organisation to facilitate the mainstream delivery of delivery to facilitate the mainstream UK organisation The Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority www. Authority and Food Development Agriculture The Irish See manmade Welsh term meaning ‘house of one night’, experimental form of ‘house of one night’, experimental term meaning Welsh UK Working group on Action to Control Chemicals, Health and Chemicals, on Action to Control group UK Working A proprietary set of products including lime binders and hemp for including set of products A proprietary UK Green Building Council UK Green United Welsh Housing Association United Welsh A form of gypsum based plaster that is commonly used in based plaster that is commonly used A form of gypsum UK Climate Impacts programme, hosted at the Environmental hosted at the Environmental programme, UK Climate Impacts Building modelling and energy technique which recognises hygro- which recognises technique Building modelling and energy World Health Organisation World UK Government Department for Trade and Industry www.ukti.gov. and Industry UK Government Department for Trade Structural insulated panels, a form of off-site, prefabricated, usually usually prefabricated, of off-site, a form panels, insulated Structural Thermo poly rock, a material based on plastic waste bonded together based on plastic waste bonded a material Thermo poly rock, UK Technology Strategy Board www.innovateuk.org/ Strategy Board UK Technology thermal behaviour of materials, Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics thermal behaviour of materials, Fraunhofer www.ibp.fraunhofer.de/en/ carbon homes www.zerocarbonhub.org/ low and zero Safety Executive timber (but sometimes metal) panels incorporating insulation, usually insulation, panels incorporating sometimes metal) timber (but bonds to the timber which such as polyurethane synthetic teagasc.ie with resins and LHOIST sold by Lime Technology hemp lime construction, welsh timber locally grown construction using www.ukcip.org.uk/ Change Institute, University of Oxford uk/home.html WUFI Carbon Hub Zero WHO SIPS SIPS Synthetic TEAGASC Thistle TPR Tradical TSB Unnos Ty UKCIP UKGBC UKTI UWHA WATCH

Glossary/Abbreviations 226 Index

Note: page numbers in italics refer to figures; page numbers in bold refer to tables.

Aalto University, Finland 126 Oxfordshire 40–2, 43, 110, 112 Abertridwr, Y Llaethdy South Wales 29–32, 33, blockwork see masonry construction 34, 105, 110 BRE see Building Research Establishment Accord Housing Association 197, 198 breathability 164–7, 168–70 acrylic paints 113–14, 168, 220 Breathe hemp flax insulation 59, 60, 98 Active House Alliance 207–8 breather membranes 30, 31, 165 Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) 4–5, 180 BREEAM (Building Research Establishment AECB (Sustainable Building Environmental Assessment Association) 129–30, 220 Method) 155, 160 Affinity Sutton 202 Brettstapel 21 Affresol 208 brickwork see masonry construction aggregates, embodied energy 135 Brighton housing scheme 199 air source heat pumps 30, 60, 81 British Board of Agrément (BBA) 111, 153 airtightness 30–1, 51, 60, 165 British Standards Institute (BSI) 153 Albyn Housing Association 55 Brundtland principle 118, 220 Alliance for Sustainable Building Products BSI (British Standards Institute) 153 (ASBP) 94, 163, 175, 216–17 BSRIA 153 aluminium, embodied energy 135 building control 140–2 aluminium sheet cladding 56 see also Building Regulations approvals see certification building design 110–12, 149–51 architectural education 148, 154 building performance see environmental impact ARC-PEACE 148, 220 assessment; thermal performance ASA (Advertising Standards Authority) 4–5, 180 building physics 154–5 ASBP (Alliance for Sustainable Building Building Regulations 121, 122, 157 Products) 94, 163, 175, 216–17 Building Research Establishment demonstration house 96, 204 bamboo, insulation 14, 16 energy use predictions 128 Bangor University 194 experiment in retrofitting 139 Bath University, ICE database 10, 11, 131, Green Guide to Specification 160–3, 162, 222 135–6, 135 Innovation Park 96, 113, 204–5 Baumit render/plaster 98, 220 interest in renewable materials 153 in case studies 49, 60, 69, 81, 113–14 Simplified Building Energy Model BBA (British Board of Agrément) 111, 153 (SBEM) 122, 157–8 BEDZED project 199 Building Research Establishment Environmental bio-based materials see natural materials Assessment Method (BREEAM) 155, 160 Bioregional 8, 220 BioRegional Quintain 199, 200 Cairn Valley house, Scotland 192 Black Mountain Ltd 4, 14, 15, 32, 81, 99, 183 Callowlands, Watford 44–5, 46, 47, 110, Blackditch, Stanton Harcourt, 111, 113

Low Impact Building: Housing using Renewable Materials, First Edition. Tom Woolley. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Published 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. , 61 153 , 104, 110, 112 , 191 54 , 114 53 , 110 195 153 196 39 , , 111 38 196 98 , 101–2, 110, 112, 113 63 Department of Energy and Climate Department of Energy , see Industrial Materials (CORRIM) Materials (CORRIM) Industrial 137 (CIRIA) Association Materials) Renewable Industrial 137 Directive) Products 151 Homes) 121–3, 155, 160 Change (DECC) 96 94, Affairs) 96 (DEFRA) 94, (DECC) 94, 96, 97, 100–1 62 Antrim 35–7, The Green Deal The Green 139–40 (RHP) Renewable House Programme 26, 28, educational issues 148, 154–5 Elements Europe 22 Consortium for Research on Renewable on Renewable Research for Consortium and Information Industry Research Construction Association Products Construction Regulations Products Construction 151 (CPD) development professional continuing 151 arsenic (CCA) copper chrome 18 cork, insulation 16 on for Research CORRIM (Consortium costs 144–5 Cottsway Housing Association 40 Union Construction CPD-EU (European (CLT) timber panels cross-laminated 21, 55–7 CSH (Code for Sustainable CZero 59, 96, 101–2 damp staining 51, 83, 112, DECC DEFRA (Department for Food and Rural Denby Dale project 207–8 Department for Food and Rural Affairs and Climate Change Department of Energy design issues 149–51 150 detailing 110–12, 77, 69, Diffutherm Denmark Lane Diss, Long Meadow, 59–60, district heating 203 Dolwyddelan houses 194, Domary Court, York 49–52, door surrounds 110 195, Dragonboard Drumalla House, Carnlough, County Durisol blocks 189 earth construction 22, 167 building earth sheltered 203–4 eaves boards 110 houses Ebbw Vale 194–5, ECOSE 5–6 137 153 , 154 137 , 110 153 39 , 38 , 155–6 , 199 153 timber cladding 135 insulated concrete formwork (ICF) insulated concrete see 153 Engineers (CIBSE) Information Association) 155, 160 (CAT) 170, 175 170, (CAT) House 35–7, 175 170, Technology) embodied energy embodied energy 135 thermal mass 172–3 see also certification 111–12, 163–4, 175, 217 Institute of Building Services Chartered CHP (combined heat and power) 135, 203 CIAC (Community in a Cube) 200 and CIRIA (Construction Industry Research cladding clay hemp plasters 190 climate change 118–19 ‘eco village’ Cloughjordan 189–90 timber panels) (cross-laminated CLT 21, 55–7 167 cob 22, Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) 121–3, coheating tests 51–2 cohousing schemes 206 combined heat and power (CHP) 135, 203 Community in a Cube (CIAC) 200 computer simulation 150, 157–60 concrete construction concrete 199, 201, 206, 210–11 condensation 164–5 Cambridge Architectural Research (CAR) (CAR) Research Architectural Cambridge 169 car sharing 81, 83 of building materials carbon content Association Cement and Concrete 204 Alternative Technology for Centre CERAM carbon counting carbon counting 139 equivalent carbon dioxide University Metropolitan Cardiff 32 Carnego Systems 104, 220 Antrim, Drumalla Carnlough, County Carter Homes 193 for Alternative (Centre CAT cavity wall insulation 168–9 arsenic) CCA (copper chrome 18 cellulose insulation 35 cement 22, carbon footprinting carbon footprinting 132–3 ‘carbon neutral’ 125, 202–3 carbon offsetting 125 carbon profiling 132 targets carbon reduction 119–20 carbon sequestration 138–9, 220 10, 136–7, carbon spike 126, 220 Carbon Trust

Index 228 Index 229 , 48 , , , 222 46 98 162 , 81, 83 74 , 188 179 73 153 , , 40–2, 44–5, 72 38 , 110, 113 136 74 , 83, 112–13, 176 , 179 , 98 135 137 74 , 99 36 , 60, 83, 112–14, 177 sedum roofs 58 fibre glass insulation fibre 48 see see 136 , 100, 101, 103 99 49–52, 59–60, 69, carbon content carbon sequestration 138–9 locally sourced 177 sustainable production 142–3 transport issues 143 acoustic properties 176–7 and certification approvals 111, 176–7 carbon sequestration 138–9 in case studies 35–7, casting 12, 60, casting 12, certification 175 drying out embodied energy embodied energy resistance fire 175 176–7 167, hygroscopicity 112 installation 110, Irish projects 189–92 painting 113 panels prefabricated 109, 114–15 shuttering 35, South African house 187–9, sprayed 176 glass fibre fibre glass glass wool 56, glues 17, 18, 56, Glu-lam 21, 55, 222 Alliance (GHA) Good Homes 108 Park Graylingwell 202–3 Building Council Green 95, Building Store Green 207 Deal Green 139–40, 218–19, 222 Guide to Specification Green 160–3, green roofs roofs green Construction Greenhill 29 HA and Westlea GreenSquare 80 199–202 xvii, ‘greenwash’ Hab Oakus 80, 222 Hab Shimmys 104, 222 Habitat for Humanity 161 Hafod Housing Association 207 Hastoe Housing Association 194 chemicals hazardous 179–83, HCA (Homes and Communities Agency) 49, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) 182, 183 health issues 178–83 hembuild 111 hemp 12 insulation hemp fibre 12–13, 40–2, 81, hemp insulation quilt 59, 60 hemp lime 12, 96, , 155 , 155 136 , 153 153 135 136 137 129 136 167 renders low energy low energy 153 synthetic products products synthetic 133–6, see versus 136 , versus certification 17 certification 17 135 163 (EPDs) 151, 163 Declarations) 151, (CPD-EU) Directive 151 buildings 128–32, mass 170–3 vapour resistance vapour resistance embodied energy embodied energy content recycled 5–6 embodied energy 10–11, definition 221 definition natural traditional Foamglass 6 issue food crop 142–3 Council (FSC) Stewardship Forest formaldehyde 6, 17, 178–9, 183, 221 Four Housing Group 76–7 Fraunhofer Institute 158–9 Council) Stewardship FSC (Forest GHA (Good Homes Alliance) 108 flooring, embodied energy flooring, embodied energy financial issues 144–5 Flagship Housing Association 59, 101–2, 204 flame retardants 180 flax insulation 13 fibre glass insulation glass fibre 49–50 external wall insulation 16, 56, 69, 89, 173 extractive industries 8 embodied energy energy embodied 10–11, 125–32 impact assessment environmental 155, 160–4 Declarations Product Environmental standards environmental 151–4 Product EPDs (Environmental Saving Trust) EST (Energy 108, Eurisol 182 and regulations standards European 181 151–4, Union Construction Products European external render Elm Tree Mews, York Mews, York Elm Tree 108 carbon embodied 136–7, Emission Zero Emission Zero 104, 221 Encon Insulation Ltd 29 targets efficiency energy 118–19 Institute Energy monitoring energy 104 performance and thermal energy policies energy 120–1 rating of buildings energy 122, 155, 157–8 (EST) Saving Trust Energy 108, , 54 61 192 136 , 110 66 98 , 175 , 110 153 66 198 , 101–2, 110, 112, 113 , 110, 112, 115–16 63 Heraklith wood wool boards Heraklith wood wool Hemcrete Tradical Baumit render/plaster , 99 (LEED) 155, 160, 223 Design) 155, 160, 223 108, 122 71–5 Community) 64–5, 108, 122 62 see also see also see also BRE demonstration house 96 panels hempcrete prefabricated 111, 114–15 certification product 175 111, Resistant board 113 thermal performance tests 52 training and technical advice 50, 109 Isolair wood fibre boards boards wood fibre Isolair Isonat+ (JRHT) Trust Housing Joseph Rowntree 49–50, S JUB Jubizol 89 Housing Association Kingdom 88, 89 169 Kingspan 6, Knauf Insulation Ltd 222–3 5–6, 95, 207, LABC warranty 111, 199 Lafarge (LVL) laminated veneer lumber 21 Lancaster cohousing 206 Lancaster University 180 Design and Environmental Leadership in Energy Leading Energy 103 and Environmental LEED (Leadership in Energy Leeds, LILAC 64–5, University (LMU) Leeds Metropolitan 51, 104, City Garden Letchworth, Tomorrow’s 68–70, Lhoist Ltd 96, 175, 223 LID (Low Impact Development) 223 life cycle analysis (LCA) 163 life cycle carbon emissions 125–30, 132, 163 LILAC (Low Impact Living Affordable lime 22–3 lime plasters and renders 23, 168, 189 Lime Technology 50 Lincoln University 193 Linden Homes 202 CZero Linford 59, 96, 101–2 linoleum, embodied energy University) LMU (Leeds Metropolitan 51, 104, local materials 8–9, 134, 177, 194–5, 197 LoCaL project 197, Denmark Lane, Diss Long Meadow, 59–60, hemp house Longford 191–2, 135 135 , 111, 168, 169 31 , 197 58 7 , 57 136 ) 142 hemp lime cont’d see natural materials; synthetic materials Breathe hemp flax insulation Breathe hemp shiv Association (IBPSA) 160, 222 database 11, 131, 135–6, 10, 100, 101, 103 Simulation Association) 160, 222 see building control building control 140–2 embodied energy market share monitoring and evaluation 218–19 performance and durability 11 content recycled 5–6, 9–10 renewable 218 retrofitting see also thermal performance thermal performance 174–7 173–7, weather issues 112–13 see also ICF (insulated concrete formwork) ICF (insulated concrete 160, 204 Icynene 195 Solutions) IES (Integrated Environmental 158 impermeable membranes 30, indoor air quality (IAQ) 178–83 formwork (ICF) insulated concrete 160, 204 insulation materials Solutions (IES) Integrated Environmental 158 INTELLO membranes 165 International Building Performance Simulation (ICE) Inventory of Carbon and Energy Inverness Expo 55–6, hemp lime houses Ireland, 189–92 ISO standards 5, 139, 163, 164, 171 iso-cyanates 222 hemp lime ( hemp Hemporium 187 boards Heraklith wood wool 35, 113, 222 Hills Construction Group 44 project Hockerton Housing 203 Hofatex 18 Construction Holbrook 207 holistic design 149–51 Agency (HCA) Homes and Communities 49, housing Honingham earth sheltered 204 hot box tests 170–1 HSE (Health and Safety Executive) 182, 183 humidity 164–7 hurd 167–8 164–5, hygroscopicity IBPSA (International Building Performance ICE database 10, 11, 131, 135–6, hemp lime blocks hemp lime 177 plaster hemp lime 189, 190 177, hemp shiv 12, 142 Ltd Hemp Technology 143 hempcrete

Index 230 Index 231 , 10 7 , 110 39 , 38 135 188 153 167 , 194 153 137 137 142 , 103 , 103 98–9 98–9 Pavatex products Natural Building Technologies (NBT) Natural Building Technologies (NHBC) 123, (NHBC) 123, 97, 109, 167, 205 Council) 123, 97, Martin, 192–4 County Antrim 35–7, see see also carbon content available commercially 11–22 with synthetic materials compared 2, 3, embodied energy 134–5, rating performance environmental 161 167 hygroscopicity market share resistance moisture 165–6 performance and durability 11 thermal performance 170 vapour permeability 165–6 vapour resistance Nanosil 89, 224 89, Nanosil Agency (NBA) National Building 210 Council National House-Building (NNFCC) Centre Crops National Non-food 94, Policy Framework National Planning 123 National Trust 144 (NBT) Natural Building Technologies 69, 97, Natural House, The 205 natural materials 2 certification Natureplus 163–4, 217, 224 NBA (National Building Agency) 210 NBT Network Housing Group Network Housing Group 44 NHBC (National House-Building Centre) NNFCC (National Non-food Crops 94, Passive windows NTech Nordan 89 house Nordhoek 187–9, Homes North Hertfordshire 68 Grove, West North Kesteven, Lincolnshire, Drumalla House, Carnlough, Northern Ireland, Oaklee Housing Association 35 occupant behaviour xvii, 209–10 (OFT) of Fair Trading Office 217–19 One Brighton 199 One Planet 200 199, Ongar strawbale houses 194 operational energy 126–8 OSB (oriented strand board) 30, 88, 224 paints, acrylic 113–14, 168, 220 recycled paper, passiv haus standard 88, 90, 129, 207, 224 passive design 133 162 mineral 136 see , 135 , 110 99 , 170 201 , 110 136 66 167 202 external wall insulation 108–9, 121, 187, 223 218–19 recovery) 35, 41, 60, 164–5, 181, 223–4 wool insulation (MIMA) 4–5, 183 (MIMA) 4–5, 108–9, 121, 187, 223 (MVHR) 35, 41, 60, 164–5, 181, 223–4 (LCBP) 42, 223 (LCBP) 42, 223 (LCIF) 95, (LILAC) 64–5, environmental performance rating environmental in case study 77 embodied energy 2, 3–4, health issues 182–3 questionable claims 4–5 vapour resistance cavity wall insulation cavity wall insulation 168–9 embodied carbon 138 embodied energy thermal behaviour 174 see also modern methods of construction (MMC) 107, in buildings moisture 159, 164–7, 211 monitoring and evaluation 103–6, 108, 211, Morrison Construction 55 mould growth 169, 178 MSM Construction Ltd 35–6 mutual home ownership society (MHOS) 64, 223 MVHR (mechanical ventilation and heat Modcell strawbale 64–5, Middlesbrough scheme Middlesbrough 199, 200 mineral wool insulation Association Manufacturers Mineral Wool MMC (modern methods of construction) 107, MMMF (man made mineral fibre) MHOS (mutual home ownership society) MHOS (mutual home ownership society) 64, 223 Middlehaven One 199, Middlehaven Two McCloud, Kevin 80, 126–7 mechanical ventilation and heat recovery magnesite 113, 223 magnesite 113, boards magnesium silicate 35, 113, 223 ‘manmade materials’ 2 Martinsons 55 masonry construction 205–8 LVL (laminated veneer lumber) (laminated veneer lumber) LVL 21 Low Carbon Industrial Strategy Industrial Strategy Low Carbon 95 Fund Investment/Innovation Low Carbon Plan Transition Low Carbon 95 energy’ ‘low carbon/’low 119 (LID) Low Impact Development 223 Community Low Impact Living Affordable Low Carbon Buildings Programme Programme Buildings Low Carbon 135 , 113–14, 220 27 98 135 153 142 building control; standards building control; , 194 see 100 , 14 timber cladding natural materials Deal Green 7 137 polyurethane foam insulation polyurethane 154–5, 156 and Restriction of Chemicals) 225 181, Programme 95 Programme 132 Surveyors) 127–8, 154–5, 156 see see also paper plastic Baumit 49, 69, 81, lime-based 23, 168, 189 Nanosil additive 89 analysis of issues arising from 107–17 case study projects monitoring and evaluation 103–6 policy background 95, 96–7 94, timeline embodied energy 134–5, market share see also see also 45 compressed embodied energy consumption resource 8 PUR PVA (polyvinyl acetates) (polyvinyl PVA 17, 18, 56 chloride) PVC (polyvinyl 161, 207, 225 Academy of Engineering) RAE (Royal 148, 121, rainscreen 111–12, 225 45, rammed earth 22 Evaluation, Authorisation REACH (Registration, materials recycled 2, 4–7, 152 Reed Street, South Shields Reed Street, 76–7 regulations bodies regulatory renders 3 renewability Renewable Building Group 94, 96–7, 102 Renewable Carbon Demonstration energy renewable xvii, 30, 125, 202, 215 (RHP) Renewable House Programme 26–8 materials renewable 1–3, 225 xvii, Rennes University 176 renovation 214 139–40, 173, research xviii, 155–7, 174–7 Resistant board 113, 225 consumption, synthetic materials resource 7–9 retrofitting 139–40, 168–9, 173, 214, 218 RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) 131 RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Riverside One 200–1 Rockwool 3–4 overhangs roof 110 Royal Academy of Engineering (RAE) 121, 148, , 77 42 92 energy rating of energy 31 , 98 , 199 33 see 83 135 135 179 167 167 179 98 98 Community 96, 205 Community 96, and their Engineering) 156, 225 (PBDE) 180, 224 (PBDE) 180, ethers) 180, 224 ethers) 180, and evaluation; buildings; monitoring thermal performance plant source plant source 90 vapour resistance health issues 179, Baumit 60 clay hemp 190 hemp lime 177, 189, 190 168 lime-based 23, Thistle 60, 113–14, 226 vapour resistance 169–70 breathability in case study 89 embodied energy in case studies in case studies 69, 77, 79 111 certification certification performance environmental 163 115 110, installation Pavaclad 77 Pavaflex 69, Pavaroof Pavatherm Plus 69, 77, post-occupancy evaluation 107–8, 156 Foundation for Building Prince’s House Prince’s 205 (Post-Occupancy Review of Buildings Probe polyvinyl chloride (PVC) 161, 207, 225 Portland cement 22, planning permission 122, 134 planning policy framework 123 Planning Portal 224 plasters Plastic house Affresol 208 plastic waste composite 208 Plymouth University 52 diphenyl ethers polybrominated polyisocyanurate (PIR) sheet 45, 112, 224 224 polyol 90, polythene membranes 30, foam insulation polyurethane Pavatex products Pavatex products 18, 20 diphenyl PBDE (polybrominated (PCP) pentachlorophenol 18 performance evaluation Project Pharos 56 phenols 17, photovoltaic panels 30, PIR (polyisocyanurate) sheet 45, 112, 224 Pittenweem project 88–91, passive ventilation ventilation passive 81,

Index 232 Index 233 , 10 7 , 110, 87 , 86 , 85 mineral wool mineral wool 135 see 83 135 136 167 137 98 99 142 99 U-values insulation (AECB) 129–30, 220 (AECB) 129–30, 112, 113, 116 carbon content embodied energy insulation 13–14 carbon footprint 193 in case study 64–5 embodied carbon 138 embodied energy project Lincolnshire 192–4 compared with natural materials compared 2, 3, embodied energy embodied energy 135, performance rating environmental 160–1 health issues 178–83 limitations 3–4 market share of promotion official 140–2 consumption resource 7–9 terminology 2 thermal performance 170 vapour resistance see also Steico 20, Steico stone facing 42 insulation stone wool Stramit 14 Sustainable Construction Strategy for 95 University Strathclyde 211 straw and straw composites strawbale 13–14, strawboard 14 strawboard panels (SIPS) structural insulated 50, 115, 226 Supawall system 88 supply chains 216–19 sustainability 3 Sustainable Building Association sustainable construction 120–1 Sustainable Construction Strategy 95 Swansea, Plastic house Affresol 208 Swindon, The Triangle 80–4, synthetic glues 17, 56, 179 synthetic materials TEAGASC 189, 226 TEAGASC 189, (TSB) Strategy Board Technology 105, 156 terminology 2 Thermafleece 14, thermal chimneys 81, thermal conductivity 170–1, 177 thermal mass 167, 170–3 thermal modelling tools 158–9 thermal performance 170–7 Thermo Poly Rock (TPR) 208, 226 188 , 197 58 , , 191 99 , 197 , 92 57 114 58 15 , , 110, 112 57 43 135 167 137 179 179 magnesium silicate boards local materials hemp shiv see (SBEM) 122, 157–8 (SBEM) 122, Chemistry (SETAC) 163, 225 179, 179, 157–8, 225 Blackditch 40–2, and Chemistry) 163, 225 157–8, 225 157–8 see in case studies 29–32, 35–7 embodied energy 167 hygroscopicity resistance moisture 169 in Scotland 192 sustainable production 143 transport issues 143–4 vapour resistance see also 180 advertising 4–5, 151–4 environmental 181 151–4, European ISO 164, 171 5, 139, 163, carbon content local sheep’s wool wool local sheep’s 192 Pittenweem project 88–91, Inverness Expo 55–6, South Africa, Nordhoek house South Africa, Nordhoek 187–9, silicate simulation tools 150, 157–60 SIPS (structural insulated panels) 50, 115, 226 and Toxicology Society of Environmental solar gain 172 of materials sourcing 216–19 foam) SPF (sprayed polyurethane 140, SPHC (Scottish Passive House Centre) 90 foam (SPF) sprayed polyurethane 140, staining, damp 51, 83, 112, (SAP) Assessment Procedure Standard 122, standards Oxfordshire, Stanton Harcourt, Simplified Building Energy Model Simplified Building Energy Scottish Housing Expo Scottish Housing Expo 55–6, shiv Scottish Passive House Centre (SPHC) Centre Scottish Passive House 90 sedum roofs 69, 225 Toxicology (Society of Environmental SETAC Responsibility) SGR (Scientists for Global 226 wool insulation sheep’s 14, SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) Procedure) Assessment SAP (Standard 122, Model) Building Energy SBEM (Simplified 122, (SGR) for Global Responsibility Scientists 226 Scotland Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Architects of British Institute Royal 131 98 , 105, , 77, 34 71 , , 110, 153 136 33 47 99 , 104, , 54 46 , 99 53 136 167 99 timber sheep’s wool insulation sheep’s masonry construction 110, 112 123–4 110, 169 Chemicals) 182, 183, 226 111, 113 192–4 Lincolnshire (WATCH) 182, 183, 226 see see in case studies 56, 69, 77 embodied energy vapour resistance Elm Tree Mews Elm Tree 108 Abertridwr, Y Llaethdy Y Abertridwr, 29–32, Affresol Plastic house 208 timber house projects 194–6 transport issues 137, 143 see also and certification approvals 111 boards wood fibre 17–18, 21, 69, insulation wood fibre 18, 20, Domary Court 49–52, Zero Carbon Hub Zero 95, 105, 123–4, carbon’ energy’/‘zero ‘zero 95, 120, Viking joiner Viking embodied energy vinyl flooring, Wales walls warranties 111–12 on Action to Control Group (Working WATCH Callowlands Watford, 44–5, weather issues 112 Martin, North Kesteven, Grove, West Building Council) Green WGBC (World 178 Health Organisation) WHO (World 178–9 window reveals 110 wood 16–22 products wood fibre 17–18, 21, 115–16 Wales Knowledge Wood 194 wood wool board 35, 113 17, wooden windows 30, 41, wool Chemicals on Action to Control Group Working Building Council (WGBC) Green World 178 (WHO) Organisation Health World 178–9 WUFI 150, 158–9, 226 WWF 180 York , 155 153 , 110, 112, , 226 87 153 , 45, 69, 77, 89 , 34 195 86 167 , , 33 85 99 , , 111, 112 31 98 , 110, 112, 115–16 wood 153 (UKCIP) 120, 226 (UKCIP) 120, 71–5 113, 116 effect of humidity of effect 170–1 hemp lime 60, 177 52, sheep’ s wool 31 solid wood panels 56 Supawall 88 timber frame panels 197 economical use of timber economical use of timber 17 local materials 194–5, 197 modular construction 194, 197 thermal performance 170–1 in case studies 30, carbon sequestration in carbon sequestration 136–7 17–21 composites panels (CLT) timber cross-laminated 21, 55–7 FSC certification 17 production sustainable 143 transport issues 137 see also UK Building Regulations 121, 122, 157 UK Climate Impacts Programme (EST) Saving Trust UK Energy 108, UK government policy 95–7, 100, 215 Building Council UK Green 95, (OFT) of Fair Trading UK Office 217–19 (TSB) Strategy Board UK Technology 105, 156 Housing Association United Welsh 29, 195 207 uPVC 161, Usable Buildings Trust 156 U-values vapour permeability 165–7, ventilation 164–5, 168 133, timber frame construction timber frame construction 109–10 18, 21–2, timber windows 30, 41, Letchworth City, Garden 68–70, Tomorrow’s toxic materials 18, 178–83 TPR (Thermo Poly Rock) 208, 226 TRADA Hemcrete Tradical Strategy Board) TSB (Technology 105, 156 Unnos project Ty 22, 194–5, timber cladding 17, 111–12 transport issues 137, 143–4 Swindon Triangle, 80–4, Thistle plaster Thistle 113–14, 226 60, timber 21–2

Index 234 Other Books Available from Wiley-Blackwell

Ecosystem Services Come to Town: The Green Guide to Specification Sustainable Refurbishment Greening Cities by Working with Nature 4th Edition Shah Grant Anderson & Shiers 9781405195089 9781405195065 9780632059614

Delivering Sustainable Buildings: Residential Landscape Sustainability: Designing Sustainable Cities An Industry Insider’s View A Checklist Tool Cooper, et al. Malina Smith, et al. 9781405179157 9781405194174 9781405158732